AFL Academy Shows Improvement
The AFL Academy delivered a stronger performance against Richmond VFL, competing for three quarters before the Tigers took control in the final quarter. Xavier Ladbrook was named best on ground, with Marlon Neocleous, Koby Lecras, Arki Butler and Tanner Armstrong also making notable contributions.
North Melbourne-Tied Prospects Shine
Two players linked with North Melbourne made strong impressions during the weekend. Archie Devine, a prospect from the North Melbourne Next Generation Academy, had 37 disposals while playing for the Tasmania Devils. His blend of stoppage work and efficiency on the outside as a defender/midfielder stood out. Sam Harris, a father-son hopeful, was selected to represent Vic Metro in a talent showcase at Avalon Airport Oval, Werribee. He displayed clean skills, slick hands and contest work, contributing to a significant victory for his team.
Bottom-Ager Oscar Henwood Makes an Impact
Oscar Henwood, who did not play for Vic Country at the Under-16s National Championships last year, is now considered one of the leading prospects in the 2027 crop. After recovering from a syndesmosis injury that kept him from a late-season debut for Gippsland Power, he has started strongly in 2026. Henwood’s clean, quick and competitive style has made him stand out, and he was again impressive in a Vic Country trial on Sunday.
South Australian Quartet Gaining Attention
Jake Eime from Central Districts, Jacob McNicol and Harry Franz from Glenelg, and Lachie Werts from Sturt have all caught attention in the SANFL U18s competition. Eime showed strong form with 24 disposals, while McNicol kicked 3.2 from 21 disposals. Franz has impressed as a marking tall defender, and Werts’ athleticism and finishing ability make him a threat.
A Famous Name Shines
Percy Burgoyne, son of former Hawthorn and Port Adelaide champion Shaun, had a breakthrough performance by kicking 4.3 for West Adelaide in South Australia’s AAMI Talent League. Representing South Australia at the Under-16s National Championships last year, he is eligible for both the Power and Hawks next year.
Victorian Talent Pathway Standouts
Vic Metro faced off with Vic Country in a pair of talent pathway games on Sunday at Avalon Airport Oval, Werribee. Several players impressed, showcasing their skills in an exhibition game.
Game 1: Vic Metro Highlights
Gus Teixeira (Sandringham Dragons) was the standout, with his speed, work rate and class on display. Angus Brown (Sandringham Dragons) showed great vision and spatial awareness. Jordan Knapp (Eastern Ranges) consistently found the ball, while Harrison Leeder (Northern Knights) demonstrated his athletic abilities. Ollie Griffin (Sandringham Dragons) reinforced his credentials as a Mid-Season Draft prospect. Harvie Cooke (Northern Knights) and Judd Lemon (Sandringham Dragons) also made notable contributions.
Game 1: Vic Country Highlights
Charlie Hanegraaf (Geelong Falcons) impacted the game with his strong stoppage game. Clancy Stuart (Dandenong Stingrays) used his frame effectively, while Klay Nicholls (GWV Rebels) took several intercepts. Keenan Boi (Gippsland Power) was involved in three goals, and Thomas McMillan (Gippsland Power) read the play well.
Game 2: Vic Metro Highlights
Lachie Hicks (Western Jets) was Vic Metro’s best performer, while Sam Harris (Calder Cannons) showed consistency. Noah McMenamin (Western Jets) took intercept marks, and George Dimer (Sandringham Dragons) demonstrated his small forward skills. Lochie Burrows (Sandringham Dragons) and Mitch Gillan (Eastern Ranges) also made impacts.
Game 2: Vic Country Highlights
Cody Templeton (Gippsland Power) proved himself as a first-round contender, while Max Thompson (Bendigo Pioneers) showcased his class. Wil Antrobus (Dandenong Stingrays) was a standout defender, and Jett Elek (Geelong Falcons) carried a big load forward. Archie Daffy (Geelong Falcons) played with tenacity and a hard edge.
