Draft prospect Sam Paea looms as one of the best key forwards available

Key forward draft prospect Sam Paea has had his fair share of ups and downs over the past two years but blistering late-season form proved his potential.

It’s been a roller-coaster two years for AFL draft hopeful Sam Paea.

The 194cm key forward was flying before the 2020 season was cancelled with several impressive practice match performances garnering plenty of interest come draft time.

He was ultimately overlooked and returned to Calder Cannons this season with plenty of motivation.

“Last year was one of my best pre-seasons, I was hitting peak fitness and in the practice games I was playing some really good footy and was pretty excited by the year ahead,” Paea said.

“I was obviously pretty disappointed when the season was called off but I maintained my training and was trying to train with as many of the boys as possible to keep pushing me.

Sam Paea in action at the pre-draft training session. Picture: Michael Klein

“I definitely had some weeks that were flatter than others but I was able to really improve my fitness.

“It was really exciting to get a little bit of interest from (AFL) clubs and managers (in 2020).

“It definitely helped with my mental strength and dedication, it’s shown me how much I want to play at the highest level.”

That roller-coaster continued into this season as Paea started the season well but struggled to convert his chances in front of goal.

He booted 2.7 in his first four games before a VFL debut sparked a purple patch, kicking 10.3 in his final three NAB League appearances.

Paea was also able to lift his output around the ground, averaging 11.3 disposals, five marks and 2.3 tackles and pinch-hitting in the ruck.

Having also featured in the Under-23 Young Guns game, Paea’s late-season form was rewarded with Vic Metro selection and a Draft Combine invite.

“I’ve never really been a part of any Vic Metro or rep sides growing up, so just to get an opportunity alongside the best in the state was great,” he said.

Sam Paea kicks at goal for Calder Cannons. Picture: Michael Klein

After missing out on the initial combine intake, two phone calls from Calder talent manager Matt Burton sent him to the emotional extremes.

“It was obviously disappointing when the first round of invites came out and I missed out, then when the second round came out Matt gave me a call saying I’d missed out again,” Paea said.

“But he called me back about half an hour later and told me I’d been selected, it was a rollercoaster of emotions, so it was a big relief and good reward.”

After missing out last year the Aberfeldie junior hopes to realise his AFL dream this time.

Paea worked tirelessly on his goalkicking routine with Cannons forward coach Jason Williams – with the results obvious – and has steadily improve his endurance.

A Richmond supporter growing up, he bases his game on triple premiership-winner Jack Riewoldt as well as Geelong star Jeremy Cameron.

Learning to be as dangerous on the ground as in the air has been one of his biggest learning curves.

“(The coaches) were telling me how important it is to be consistent, not just week-by-week but also quarter-by-quarter,” he said.

“I tried not to get too worked up if I wasn’t performing because there’s always the next contest to attack.

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“Hopefully you can take the mark but if not create the contest, which is something I worked really hard on, if I was out of position trying to half the contest.

“I like Jeremy Cameron’s athleticism and how clean he above his head and below his knees and then Jack Riewoldt with his leadership and ability to play up and down the ground.”

Paea looms as a late to rookie draft pick with clubs intrigued by his upside, ability to split packs and kick goals in bunches.

The draft will be held over two days again this year, kicking off on November 24.