Cody Brand to showcase talents on AFL grand final day in Under-17 Future All-Stars game on MCG

Cody Brand will strut his stuff on the biggest day in Aussie Rules football after being selected in the Under-17 Future All-Star game to be played on the MCG on grand final day.

Calder Cannons young gun Cody Brand.

Cody Brand is taking nothing for granted.

After an impressive season with Calder Cannons, the young defender will run out on to the MCG with some of best young talent in Australia in the Under-17 Future All-Stars game on grand final day.

The match provides another chance for the 17-year-old to showcase his talents to the AFL world ahead of the 2020 draft.

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Brand is also aligned to Essendon through its Next Generation Academy, giving the Bombers priority access.

However, the Macedon junior is far from complacent, knowing there’s plenty of hard work required if he’s to hear his name called out and achieve his dream.

“I was awfully surprised about the (All-Stars) selection,” Brand said.

Cody Brand in action for Calder Cannons.

“I’m fortunate enough to be a part of the NGA with my indigenous background.

“They help me develop my (on-field) craft, in the gym but also little tips on diet, mental health, that sort of thing.

“(The draft) is another year away and a lot of hard work has to go into it, but I’m very fortunate to be in this position. I know the job’s not finished yet.”

Brand played 10 NAB League games for Cannons this season, including the team’s three finals, before the campaign finished with a semi-final loss to Sandringham Dragons.

The 195cm defender averaged eight disposals, two marks, two tackles and 2.5 rebound 50s.

Splitting his time between Cannons and Essendon Grammar, Brand said he was pleased with his season and looking forward to 2020.

“I played 10 games due to school footy commitments, it finished on a bit of a sour note, but personally I’ve develop in many ways,” he said.

“It will put me in good stead for my top-age season next year.

“Full-back has been a bit of a change for me, but I’ve enjoyed it thoroughly.

“As my football has developed — playing in the backline, centre half-back at school football — it’s now where I feel comfortable and call it home.”

Brand will suit up for Team Dal Santo in the Futures game, coached by Collingwood premiership player and Vic Country coach Leigh Brown.

Team Dal Santo will also feature Sam Walsh’s brother Henry, Jackson Macrae’s brother Finlay, Sydney academy star Errol Gulden and Northern Knights gun Nik Cox.

Brand was looking forward to the experience and got some timely advice from Essendon NGA coach Heath Hocking.

“I asked him how do I go about it, how do I deal with the nerves, “he said.

“He just said just embrace it and enjoy the lead up and enjoy the game.”

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