Sturt young gun Manni Liddy’s draft dream alive despite failing to gain the attention of AFL clubs

A gun South Australian midfielder has revealed his frustration at flying under the radar but remains hopeful of achieving his AFL draft dream.

An AFL draft hopeful has revealed his frustrating experience gaining the attention of clubs ahead of tonight’s round two selections.

19-year-old Sturt and South Australia midfielder Mani Liddy had an impressive 2021 at league and national level but has still flown under the radar compared to other prospects.

After dominating at reserves level, Liddy played five games for Sturt’s senior side and also captained and vice-captained SA in the under-19 championship, ranking top seven for disposals, contested possessions and tackles across the carnival.

Manny Liddy takes a mark for SA against WA in the under-19 championship. Picture: Supplied

Liddy said a lack of contact from clubs and recognition from others was disappointing but he remained hopeful of landing an AFL spot.

“I don’t look into rankings or anything like that but not speaking much to any clubs since the start of the year or getting more recognition is frustrating,” Liddy said.

“I put in a lot of work which nobody really sees and I’ve only missed one game in two years while performing consistently at every level.

“I’m definitely still hopeful – it would mean the world to me to get picked up – but I’m preparing for the worst outcome, not getting my hopes up too much.”

Mani Liddy (right) with fellow SA captains and highly-rated draft talents Jason Horne-Francis (middle) and Lewis Rayson. Picture: Peter Argent

Liddy’s game was improved and finetuned in 2021, and his ability to win the ball and get it out to an opponent was on show as he tallied up clearances with ease for Sturt.

He was also impressive in his league games for Sturt, namely his debut in which he finished with 21 disposals, 11 contested possessions, six clearances and five tackles.

Liddy credited Martin Mattner at Sturt and SA’s Tony Bamford for his development.

“My goals at the start of the year were to play every single state game and make my league debut for Sturt and I was lucky enough to do both, which was a real privilege,” he said.

Liddy gets a handball off for Sturt. Picture: Phil Radoslovich

“I trained like I was at the bottom of the pecking order all season and having Marty (Mattner) as a coach, he really pushed me to use my strengths and gave me great confidence.

“Tony Bamford pushing me for that leadership role really improved my leadership and people skills as well, as I felt I could use my SANFL experience to help the boys and I was able to do that. Having that leadership ability is fundamental at the highest level.”

Liddy has shown he has what it takes to match it with the best young talent the country has to offer, but as there is seemingly a lack of attention from AFL clubs his future remains up in the air.

He said regardless of this week’s outcome his mind is set on improving his game next year and playing every league game for a talented young Sturt team if he remains in the SANFL.

The remainder of the AFL draft will take place tonight after last night’s round one selections, with the rookie draft going ahead on Friday.