AFL Draft 2023: The Bendigo Pioneers who are in contention

Harley Reid is the clear standout from this year’s Bendigo Pioneers draft crop but there are several other names you need to keep an eye on.

While history will be created for the Bendigo Pioneers at the AFL draft, the club is hopeful the celebrations will continue over the two-day event.

The Pioneers are on the verge of having their first number one pick selected with Harley Reid set to be selected by either West Coast, who has the first pick, or by another team who trades to get him.

Reid will be the highest player selected in the AFL draft from the Pioneers since Andrew Walker was picked up by Carlton at number two in the 2003 draft.

But he might not be the only Pioneer off to the AFL next year.

Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree said another three were in contention to be picked, even though those selected in the AFL draft this year could be fewer than in previous years.

“We’re hopeful there are numerous selections,” he said.

“Leading the charge are our three state combine players, Hugh Byrne, Oskar Smartt and Oliver Poole.

“They all tested really well in their particular areas, which was pleasing. They will be great assets for an AFL club if they get an opportunity.”

Hugh Byrne is in contention to be selected by an AFL club. Photo by Jonathan DiMaggio/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

O‘Bree said each had a reason why they should be picked.

For Hugh Byrne, from Echuca, its his traits off the field.

The 194cm tall also knows how to kick a goal.

“He’s an exceptional character with super leadership and his marking ability is exceptional,” O’Bree said.

“He’s a really good teammate and he brings others into the game.

“He has got a lot of good attributes.”

Jed Daniels and Oskar Smartt of the Bendigo Pioneers in action during the testing Day at Maribyrnong College in March. Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos via Getty Images

The other two standouts for the Pioneers, for O’Bree, remind him of current AFL players.

O’Bree said Smartt, from Leitchville Gunbower, reminds him of two small forwards and he has the talent to join them in future years, if given a chance.

“He’s a super powerful unit, got super speed and can take hangars for a 178cm kid,” he said.

“He also has a super foot on him. He’s very similar to a (Tom) Papley or Cody Weightman type.

“He would be a real headache for opposition teams.”

Poole comes from Echuca United in the Murray league.

“He’s an elite runner, his running capabilities on the wing or as an outside player or at half back are very similar to (Ollie) Hollands at Carlton,” he said.

“He’s quite a very good kick and super quick, super tough.”

The Bendigo Pioneers also have Ryan Watson and Mitchell Dodos registered for the draft.

The AFL Draft will be held on November 20 and 21.