Harry Schoenberg is shocked but proud to jump from SA under-18 discard to All-Australian
Harry Schoenberg looms as an AFL draft big bolter after an impressive MVP-winning display for South Australia at the national under-18 championships.
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Adelaide could swoop on Victorians Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson with a top two draft pick but South Australian midfielder Harry Schoenberg looms as a bolter after the Australian under-18 championships.
A sheep farmer’s son from Marrabel in the state’s Mid North, the Croweaters’ MVP Schoenberg was one of four South Australians to earn All-Australian selection alongside Will Gould, Dylan, Stephens and Jackson Mead.
Having missed selection in SA’s initial under-18 squad, Schoenberg doubled down on his aerobic capacity then disposal efficiency and never looked back.
“It is a pretty big shock for me. It wasn’t something I was going into the carnival to win. I am really proud,” said Schoenberg of his MVP award.
“First time in the under 18s and All-Australian so very proud.”
Port Adelaide Rising Star Connor Rozee has set the standard for prospective draftees but Schoenberg says getting a start in Woodville-West Torrens’ league team is his next goal.
“It has always been a dream of mine since I was a little boy, playing on the big stage. I can’t have much control over that, just go back to my SANFL club and play some good footy,” said
Schoenberg, whose contested possession prowess and clean hands forced scouts to reassess draft plans.
“I will let the recruiters do their job and seek me out.”
The Croweaters last Friday lost by a point against Vic County which cost a third win and consecutive under-18 titles after they wrapped up the championships with a 17-point against the Allies on Wednesday.
Western Australia’s win on the siren against Vic Country on Wednesday at Marvel Stadium secured a first triumph in nine years but Schoenberg noted the “great talent” in SA’s line-up.
“Will Gould has been a very strong player being selected All Australian last year and this,” said Schoenberg.
“Meady and Kysaiah Pickett my Woodville mates up forward. Cameron Taheny and Dylan Stephens — both who have been playing league footy — had a good carnival.”