We name the Victorian metro leagues’ best under-21 footy players
AFL and VFL talent scouts take note. There’s some serious young talent tearing up local leagues in Melbourne. Local Footy writers have named 100 to watch.
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These are among the young players to look out for in the Eastern, Essendon District, VAFA, Southern, Northern and Western Region leagues.
They’re all around the age of 21.
They’re not on VFL or NAB League lists.
But they’re all emerging players and prospects.
Ak Ty George Abboud, Maribyrnong Park
One of the Lions’ vice-captains, Abboud is building towards becoming an elite midfielder in the top flight. The 21-year-old displays a willingness to defend and chase and is also explosive for his size. He’s also capable of snagging a goal and produces consistently.
Liam Acosta-Harvey, Ferntree Gully
The teenager and former Eastern Ranges name plays on-ball for the Eagles and hasn’t missed a beat this season. Entered senior ranks having won an Under 15s competition best and fairest in 2017. Debuted in Ferntree Gully’s 2019 preliminary final, and he’s been part of a group of young guns to make their mark this season, alongside the likes of Charlie Peters and Tom Gasparroni, with the trio rotating through the middle and up forward. It’s done wonders for the Gully’s ability to run out games, according to coach Brent Kiker.
Dylan Aridas, Greenvale
Aridas made his senior debut for the Jets two years ago and managed four senior games. He has established himself as a key member of Greenvale’s side in 2021, bagging 19 goals from 11 outings, including a five-goal haul against Glenroy.
Toby Arms, Mordialloc
The Under 19-eligible half forward is an exceptional mark, with long arms taking the ball at its highest point. Works up and down the ground, and is always prepared to get in front. Former AFL star Dermott Brereton has dropped in for a couple of training session with Arms and the other forwards this year.
Joseph Ayton-Delaney, Old Xaverians
The dashing half back and wingman played in an under-19s premiership with Xavs, spent two seasons with Oakleigh Chargers (popping up for Vic Metro games) and was selected for two VFL matches for Williamstown in 2019. Quick, skilful and has a ton of time, and comfortably one of the best young players in the VAFA.
Mitch Barry, Keysborough
The tall defender joined Keysy with a basketball ground – he played for the Pakenham Warriors representative team – and shaped as a forward. But coach Chris Smith shifted him to defence and he’s developing into an exciting prospect.
Nathan Bell, South Morang
Played in South Morang’s senior and under-19 grand finals in 2019 and has played every game at senior level this season in NFL Division 3. Capable of playing anywhere on the ground, Bell has kicked 11 goals and been named in the best in seven of 12 appearances.
Cayden Black, South Belgrave
It’s always difficult to slot into a side coming off a perfect premiership season, but Black has done exactly that at the Saints, playing every game so far. And the 17-year-old has had an impact starting on-ball each week, according to coach Luke Galliott, to be named in the best in eight of his 13 matches. Son of former AFL Docker and Saint Heath Black.
Tom Brindley, Greensborough
Was on fire early in the season, leading the NFL Division 1 Coaches’ MVP voting at the halfway mark. Was getting attention from VFL outfit Northern Bullants before cooling off in the second half of the year but there’s no doubting his talent.
Mason Byrne, Fairpark
The 2019 Division 4 under-19 comp best and fairest winner has played consistent senior football this season in the absence of experienced 2019 premiership names – and it’s an opportunity he’s grabbed with both hands, according to coach Sean Stanton. Has long been earmarked as the future of the club after debuting as a 17-year-old in 2017, with the exciting mid/forward playing every game this season.
Adam Carafa, Banyule
Earned an invitation to the AFL Draft Combine as one of the best under-18 talents in Australia in 2019 but was overlooked. Injuries have taken a toll this season, limiting him to just seven senior appearances, but there’s no doubting his talent.
Ben Cardamone, Croydon
The lively Blues defender made his senior debut for the club in 2019, and what an impact he’s had since. Spent two seasons with the Eastern Ranges before heading back to his junior club where he’s slotted in nicely across halfback. A fierce competitor who doesn’t give an inch, Cardamone was integral to Croydon’s rise up the Division 1 ranks in 2019 on its way to a grand final appearance.
Matt Cecchin, Heidelberg
Still just 21, it feels like Cecchin has been around forever after making his senior debut with Heidelberg in 2017. Now a key part of the Tigers’ premiership push, the former Oakleigh Charger has played every game this season and earned six mentions in the best. Stunning to think he’s still improving.
Brock Chircop, Craigieburn
The speedy midfielder/forward has been restricted this season because of injury, but his talent is not in question. Chircop booted 32 goals for the Eagles in 2019 as they claimed the Division 1 flag. He also finished third in the best and fairest and earned team-of-the-year honours.
Tane Cotter, St Mary’s
Has been banging in the goals for St Mary’s this season, sitting equal third in NFL Division 2 with 28 majors despite missing one game. That includes a haul of four against premiership favourite Banyule. The Burras’ production line continues to develop impressive young talent.
Jordan Corelli, Macleod
Played one game in the under-19s this season in Round 2 but been a key player for the Kangas’ seniors since. Has been on a tear since Round 7 kicking 11 goals in his last six games and earning three mentions in the best. His forward pressure and goal sense is impressive for a player so young.
Jacob Curry, Bentleigh
The onballer is still eligible for the Demons’ under-19s but coach Peter Pirera believed he was ready for senior football and promoted him to the Division 1 team. He’s been a spark for the side with his skill, strength and courage. And he’s displayed leadership qualities too. Has had mentions in the best in seven of his eight matches.
Matteo D’Alfonso, Silvan
A premiership player with the Cats’ Under 19s in 2019 and named best afield in the grand final. Has progressed to senior ranks with aplomb, named as the club’s senior co-captain – that’s how highly the midfielder is rated up the mountain. Had a decorated junior career, too, winning an A-grade comp best and fairest in the under-17s in 2017 playing for the Rowville Knights.
Jordan Davey, Maribyrnong Park
The 21-year-old has been outstanding in his second season at senior level, with a move from the forward line to defence reaping handsome dividends. Davey takes the No.1 key forward from the opposition each week and has been named in Maribyrnong Park’s best seven times from 11 games, his intercept marking a highlight. Also booted five last-quarter goals against Craigieburn in June.
Cameron Dickie, Dingley
The former Parkdale Vulture has had an immense impact with the Dingoes, averaging 27 disposals per game, including hauls of 40 and two goals against Bentleigh and 47 and three goals against Highett. Knows how to find the ball and knows where the goals are. And rival clubs are starting to get to know how damaging he can be.
Zac Di Giuseppe, Moonee Valley
The 21-year-old had a hot start to 2021, named best-afield in three of his first four matches for the Fog. Di Giuseppe established himself as a senior regular in 2019 and has been one of the competition’s leading players this season, dominating in the midfield and also hitting the scoreboard.
Tyler Edwards, Rowville
The Eastern league Premier Division midfielder has proven himself to be a “cut above at this level” across his six games this year, Rowville coach Ben Wise says. Played as an inside midfielder where he’s really cracked in, but an ankle injury had him sidelined for five weeks of the campaign. As the coach describes him: “Two-way runner, good skills, good decision-maker, hard at the footy.”
Saad El-Hawli, Altona
The Vikings forward has produced several eye-catching performances in his first season in the WRFL’s senior ranks. El-Hawli has contributed 24 goals from 11 games, bagging five against seven-time reigning premier Deer Park and four against Werribee Districts and Point Cook. Booted 38 from seven games for the club’s Under 18 side in 2019, including a haul of 17. The 20-year-old is a super talent.
Misilifi Faimolo, St Kilda City
A former rugby player in New Zealand, where he reached a good level, the midfielder is playing only his third season of football. He’s quick, strong, has clean skills and is athletic. Played for the New Zealand open team against the AFL Australian under-17 squad in 2019 and is sure to get calls from VFL clubs at the end of the season.
Alex Federico, West Preston-Lakeside
As a 19-year-old in 2019 he won a second straight NFL Division 1 premiership with West Preston-Lakeside and claimed the club best-and-fairest. Now one of the best midfielders in the league as a 21-year-old. Comfortably one of the finest young talents outside the VFL system in Victoria.
Kurtis Flakemore, Rowville
Finally getting a decent run on the park after three knee reconstructions in previous seasons hampered the former Eastern Ranges player. Has been a handy addition into the Hawks’ line-up after debuting in Round 1 this season, and can play either end of the ground as a tall. Standout performance came against North Ringwood in Round 9, kicking four as a lead-up half-forward. Played six matches to date and his talent has excited Hawks coach Ben Wise.
Rayden Garrard, Greensborough
Claimed the NFL Division 1 under-19 league best-and-fairest in 2019 and stepped straight into senior football as the Borough’s No. 1 ruckman in 2019. His season was interrupted by a dislocated knee in Round 7 but he made a strong return in Round 15 and earned a mention in the best.
Matt Gaul, Maribyrnong Park
The 20-year-old impressed when he undertook a pre-season with North Melbourne’s VFL squad before the cancelled 2020 campaign. The homegrown Lions product has returned to the club determined to score an opportunity at state league level, winning praise for his attack on the ball. Gaul has been described as a “competitive beast” and started the season across halfback before moving into the midfield. Has enormous potential.
Ned Gentile, Airport West
The Calder Cannons best-and-fairest winner and 2018 Eagles premiership player is a top talent, booting four goals to go with 35 possessions against Roxburgh Park this season. The 19-year-old midfielder/forward has 18 goals to his name and featured in the EDFL’s top grade for Essendon Doutta Stars in 2017.
Jaxon Gervasoni, Mulgrave
Claimed the Eastern league’s Paul Edie Medal as the best and fairest in Division 2 in 2019 as a 19-year-old and was also named in the division’s team of the year. The ball magnet’s services were sought-after in the top division for 2020, making the move to Doncaster, but the non-season put paid to any appearances. Headed back to Mulgrave for this season, where he’s featured in the best in seven of his 12 matches.
Angus Grant, Old Mentonians
Key forward who has attracted the attention of the Sandringham Dragons after some encouraging form in the VAFA Premier C competition. Takes a strong contested mark, is a reliable set-shot kick (he kicked 8.1 against Preston Bullants) and is athletic. On the verge of a call-up to the Sandringham Dragons’ NAB League team.
Tevita Hallett-Tauali’l, St Kilda City
Athletic, sharp-skilled tall forward who can take a mark and nail a goal. Joined City this year with a CV that includes TAC Cup with Eastern Ranges and plays a bit like teammate Mykelti Lefau, who played in the VFL for Casey.
Rory Hanlon, St Mary’s
Made his debut back in 2017 and is now one of St Mary’s coach Fabian Carelli’s first picked. Mixing his time between centre half-forward and the ruck, Hanlon is one of the best young talents in NFL Division 2 having kicked 13 goals in 12 games and earned a nod in the best on five occasions.
Jed Hansen, Heathmont
The Jets have unearthed a new name in attack this season in the teenager and former club junior, who lined up at halfback during the pre-season matches. But he switched forward for the season proper, and he’s delivered, kicking 19 goals to date and providing the Jets another target. “Since he’s done that, he hasn’t looked back,” coach Nick Rutley says of Hansen’s move into attack. Fellow young guns Joel Burleigh (halfback) and Harry Isaacs (centre half-back) have also impressed the coach this season.
Lachie Harry, Blackburn
Debuted in the seniors this season and has stepped into the ruck – and had an impact. Think of the EFNL Premier Division ruckmen and ex-AFL giants immediately spring to mind among the wealth of names, and to that end, the 21-year-old has performed remarkably well, pitted against more experienced and bigger opponents. It’s been some baptism of fire but he’s certainly delivered, according to coach Brendan Allen.
Angus Hart, St Kevin’s
A 199cm developing young ruckman who can also play in the key positions. Is mobile for his size and can pluck a pack mark.
Sam Harte, Blackburn
The 21-year-old has been a regular in the Panthers’ line-up this season after debuting in 2019. He’s a product of the junior club where he raked in the accolades including a string of best and fairests and premierships. He’s also a former Oakleigh Charger and VFL Northern Blues listed player. The midfielder has found plenty of the ball this year in the Eastern league’s top division, including a best-afield display in Round 5, netting four goals and 21 disposals. “He doesn’t waste a possession,” Blackburn coach Brendan Allen said of Harte earlier this season.
Braidyn Hirt, North Heidelberg
Made his senior debut in Round 1 this season and has played every game since. Now a mainstay under Jason Heatley, Hirt brings good defensive forward pressure and is learning from two of the best small forwards in the NFL – Shane Harvey and Billy Hogan.
Oscar Hodgson, Warrandyte
Still eligible for Under 19s but is making waves in the Bloods’ senior side, playing on the ball. In fact, he’s played every game this season for the Eastern league Division 3 ladder-leader and has stood up in some big moments, including his side’s one-versus-two clash with Ferntree Gully in the absence of experienced names. Senior coach Paul Donahoo has described Hodgson’s consistency as an “awesome effort’’. Fellow under-19 talent Leo Garrick, who also plays on-ball, has also impressed the coach this season, especially in his best-afield performance against the Gully.
Daniel Horvat, Whitehorse Pioneers
Leading the Eastern league Division 3 under 19 goalkicking with 49 majors from 10 appearances – including a haul of 10.1 in his last outing. Has made the step up to senior football this season where he’s earned the praise of coach, Duncan Jones. “He’s an absolute star – against Warrandyte, we had a guy pull out late and we were short in the reserves as well, so he played 19s, filled in for a half in the reserves and then played seniors. He’s a team-first and club-first player that the club can really build around.”
Daniel Horsfield, Eltham
Played the first two games of the season in the reserves before forcing his way into Eltham’s senior side and hasn’t looked back since. He’s continued his outstanding form with five mentions in the best in nine games. Stepped straight into the Panthers’ midfield alongside the likes of Brent Macaffer and Brayden Taglieri and more than held his own.
Makinley Hoskin, Doncaster East
Touted as “one to watch” by triple Eastern league premiership coach Steve Buckle, Hoskin is skipper of the under 17s at the Lions’ junior club – Beverley Hills. Few could have had a bigger baptism of fire than the 17-year-old, either, debuting against Vermont earlier this season where he was thrust into the backline to face one of the most potent attacks in the league, holding his own. “He’s got a big body, he’s quick and he’s strong,” Buckle says of Hoskin.
Will Humphreys, Glenroy
The 21-year-old arrived at the Roys after a stint in the lower ranks of the VAFA and has proven himself as a quality key defender. The 193cm Humphreys is quick and agile, boasts closing speed, is a strong mark and difficult to beat one-on-one. Has six mentions in the best from 11 games.
Campbell James, Cheltenham
The left-footer started the season in the under 19s, came into the senior side in Round 5 and has held his place as a goalkicking small forward. Kicked six last Saturday week against Oakleigh District to give him 18 from seven starts. James is also an accomplished young cricketer, having appeared at pathways level for the South East Bayside Breakers.
Spencer Johnson, Altona
The 19-year-old former Western Jet is another emerging star at the Vikings in his first season in the senior ranks. Johnson has shone for the Division 1 outfit as a defender/wingman and has been in the best six times from 10 games.
John Jorgensen, Bundoora
With Sam Lloyd now out for the rest of the season, Jorgensen is Bundoora’s No. 1 forward at just 21. Made his senior debut in 2019 but has taken his game to a new level in 2021. Already has 27 majors this season and the Bulls will be hoping for many more as they chase a premiership.
Mitch Kalpakis, South Morang
In 2019 Kalpakis played in the NFL Division 3 senior grand final for South Morang and backed up a week later in the Lions’ NFL Division 2 under-19s premiership. He’s now a key player in the club’s promotion push this season and making an impact as a midfielder. Will be hot property this off-season.
Jason Kenneth, Westmeadows
The ruckman is performing superbly in his first season in his senior ranks. Kenneth has a basketball background and has displayed an impressive leap in 2021. He is athletic, quick across the ground and disposes of the ball well. The 19-year-old has been rewarded with five mentions in the best from 10 games.
Jesse King, Bundoora
Showed signs with Eltham in 2019 but has excelled in 2021 with the Bulls. Has kicked 20 goals in 12 games this season and will be asked to step up in Sam Lloyd’s absence come finals. Capable in the air and around the ground, he’s a difficult match-up for rival coaches.
Lachlan Kruger, The Basin
One of many exciting young talents at Batterham Reserve, Kruger is known for his ruthless attack on the footy and line-breaking speed, playing through the midfield. Enjoyed a breakout season in 2019 where he featured in 17 senior games, all while still being eligible for under-19s. The 21-year-old has continued to make a mark this season with seven senior games so far, including a game-changing performance in the upset win over ladder-leader, Ringwood. Formerly listed with the Eastern Ranges.
Tyrell Lafituanai, St Kilda City
Inside ball winner whose tackling ability reflects his rugby background. Can kick a goal too. Played under 19s for City in 2019 and with his fitness and strength he now stands as an important senior player.
Lachie Lamble, Dingley
The former Sandringham Dragon is getting 25 possessions per game for the Dingoes, pinging off half back with pace – he’s averaging six running bounces a match, and he’s brave in the air. Coach Danny Ades says Lamble has to be a lock for the Division 1 Team of the Year.
Josh Leather, Laurimar
Arguably one of the best young ruckmen in the entire Northern Football League at 21. Leather has come on in leaps and bounds at Laurimar after making 15 senior appearances in 2019. Capable in the centre but does a power of work around the ground as well.
Matthew Lewis, Diamond Creek
Despite missing four games is in the conversation for NFL Division 2 Team of the Year honours after an outstanding campaign as evidenced by his seven mentions in the best in eight appearances. One of the best half-backs in the competition with his run and ability to hit targets under pressure.
Charlie Macisaac, Old Xaverians
Another player to come up from the under 19s. Can play on the wing, through the midfield and up forward, where he has slotted 15 goals from eight matches, including three in this past two outings. Club officials are convinced he’ll bring down the mark of the year one day.
Josh Mackie, Bentleigh
Quick, skilled and dangerous around goal – he kicked three on his debut – Mackie is one of 12 under 19 players to have rotated in the senior team this year, an indication that Bentleigh is building something good. Mackie has played juniors with the Demons since under 9s and is now coach of the under 16s. Teammates Lachie Waldren, Jono Hunt and 6’6 Luke Nunn have caught the eye too.
Daniel Mammoliti, Strathmore
Mammoliti continues to cause headaches for opposition defenders in his second season of senior football and has hit the scoreboard in six of eight matches in 2021, giving him 29 goals from 22 appearances in the EDFL’s top flight.
Simon Marchese, Keysborough
Classy left-footer who made his debut for Keysy at the age of 16. Ahead of the 2020 season he received a late invitation to train with the Dandenong Stingrays and he ended up making the list. Sets up goals and kicks them too.
Tim Matson, Tullamarine
A top-quality young defender who secured team of the year honours in 2019 to go with a fifth-placed finish in the Demons’ best-and-fairest award. Matson has taken down some big names despite having only 35 senior games to his name and undoubtedly has a bright future.
Will Mayhood, Collegians
The 18-year-old is a tall defender but agile enough to play on smaller forwards. Mayhood hurt his ankle early in the season but has made a strong return, being called up by the Sydney Swans when they needed numbers for their VFL team.
Josh Mazzarella, Mernda
After getting a taste for senior football in 2019, Mazzarella has taken his game to a new level this season. The youngster has played all 12 games for Mernda and been named in the best nine times. Used mainly off halfback but also capable up forward, he’s been one of the finds of the season.
Alec McComb, Cheltenham
The captain of the Mentone Grammar team made a sparkling debut for the Rosellas, running and linking smartly from half forward and booting three goals. Is in the St Kilda Next Generation Academy and Chelt coach Des Ryan believe he’ll play a good level of football.
Declan McComb, Cheltenham
Played his first game for Cheltenham on the same day as his brother, holding down the wing and kicking the ball with much skill. He’s co vice-captain of the Mentone Grammar side with AFL draftee Jacob Edwards – and he’s also a promising cricketer.
Cooper McPharlane, East Sunbury
The 20-year-old is one of the most dangerous forwards in EDFL Division 2, booting five goals or more four times this season and racking up 41 majors from nine games. McPharlane played just four games for Jacana two years ago, but has been quick to make his mark at his new club this year and has provided plenty of surprises for opposition sides.
Jake Mellis, Boronia
It’s been a steady rise for the 21-year-old starting on-baller, after playing 20 senior matches in his debut season in 2019 – all while still being eligible for under 19s. Made the jump to open-age footy having had a decorated underage career, taking in an under-19s best and fairest and premiership in 2018 as the vice-captain. The former Eastern Ranges name has played a further 12 senior games this season and is touted for a big future at the level.
Riley Mihailovic, Beaumaris
Small forward who the Sharks think can turn into a midfielder. Has a ton of toe, tackles hard and has a dangerous left-foot. Made a cracking start to the season but has battled shin soreness recently. Mihailovic spent some time with the Sandringham Dragons in the NAB League and the Sharks will be pushing him up as a VFL hope for next year.
Edwards Mills, Mernda
Made his senior debut in 2017 but only cemented his spot this season. Now one of the Demons first-choice midfielders, Mills led the club in Coaches’ MVP votes at the halfway mark of the season and would fancy a spot in the NFL Division 3 Team of the Year. A bright spot in a tough year at Mernda.
Max Mitchell-Russell, Port Melbourne Colts
Former Colts coach Lindsay Gilbee turned Russell into a key defender in 2019 and it’s brought out the best of a young player who tried his luck with Coburg the VFL at the age of 18. He probably wasn’t ready for the state league then. He most certainly is now, and he’ll be back on VFL books in 2022, with the blessing of Port Colts.
Zach Molloy, Whittlesea
Still only 19 but has kept some of the best forwards in NFL Division 1 quiet this season, including Ahmed Saad and Shane Harvey. Had a pre-season trial at Northern Bullants and has used it as motivation. Team of the Year honours surely await.
Hannin Mundy, East Ringwood
The exciting tall has taken on the rucking duties at the ‘Roos this season after making the move from East Burwood. Shoulders most of the load here, filling the void left by club giants Andrew Renton and Dean Cleven, who retired earlier this season. East Ringwood coach Ben Osborne says the former Ram doubles as another midfielder, such are his elite skills overhead and at ground level – and a tank to run all day.
Joel Naylor, Hurstbridge
Crossed from the Riddell District league this season and has shown his class in almost every outing. Despite the Bridges winning just three games, Naylor has only been held scoreless once and currently sits third on the NFL Division 1 goalkicking table with 36 majors.
Ben Nikolovski, Heidelberg
After playing eight games for Northern Knights in 2019, Nikolovski has walked straight into the Heidelberg line-up and hasn’t missed a game this season. Capable of playing in midfield or up forward, Nikolovski’s versatility is one of his strengths.
Matt O’Brien, St Paul’s
Made his debut for the Southern league Division 1 Doggies this year at the age of 17 and is one of the fittest players at the club. A half forward and wingman who has a ton of courage and hits the scoreboard. In time might be able to follow St Paul’s teammate Nick Stathopoulos (Port Melbourne) on to a VFL list.
Charlie Oglethorpe, Blackburn
The former Oakleigh Charger is on the Panthers’ under 19 list but has played six senior matches since making his debut in Round 3. Of those six, he’s been named in the best on four occasions and remarkably, “was nearly best on ground” against North Ringwood in just his second game, coach Brendan Allen said of the forward earlier this season.
Ethan Penrith, West Preston-Lakeside
One of the most exciting players in NFL Division 1 with his run and carry off halfback for West Preston-Lakeside. Strongly built and fast, there aren’t many forwards that can escape Penrith or catch him on the rebound. Has played every game this season for the two-time defending premiers.
Cooper Perry, Tullamarine
Has flourished with more opportunity at the Demons after making the move from East Keilor, bagging 25 goals from 11 games in 2021, highlighted by hauls of four against his former club, Taylors Lakes, Hillside and Sunbury Kangaroos.
Lachie Potter, Watsonia
A Vic Metro representation, Potter was right in the AFL Draft frame until a serious shoulder injury ruined his under-18 season. A pacy line-breaker has all the skills required to be a star at local level.
Matt Presutto, St Kevin’s
Presutto, 20, has emerged quickly off half back, reading the play, kicking the ball with penetration and showing old-fashioned toughness. He’s had a run through the midfield took. One St Kevin’s watchers thinks Presutto is in the best three under 20 players in the VAFA
Taj Proctor, Fitzroy Stars
Just 18 years old, the exciting young product has played every game this season and earned six mentions in the best. Learning from his father, former Richmond player Lionel and Essendon’s Nathan Lovett-Murray will hold him in good stead. The future of the Stars.
Jamie Ridd, Balwyn
Split time between the Tigers’ under 19s and seniors this season, playing five matches apiece – including the past five in the seniors. Earned his chance at the top-flight in Round 4 and has been in ever since, playing a prominent role on the wing. Balwyn senior coach Rodney Eade says he enjoyed a breakout game against Rowville in Round 10 with “seven or eight tackles, kicked two (goals), and (has shown) good speed as a forward pressure player”.
James Ross, Vermont
The former Eastern Ranges captain has made his mark in his first senior campaign at the Eagles, playing alongside older brother and Vermont champion, Robbie. Earned the praise of former Ranges coach Darren Bewick as one of the best leaders he’d seen in a decade at the NAB League club, and was considered unlucky not to be invited to the draft combine in 2019. The defender has stood out in his eight appearances to date, holding his own against the best of the east in the top-flight.
Bailey Ryan, Hillside
The 20-year-old entered the season as a promising young player but is now one of the standouts in EDFL Division 1. Ryan has 28 goals from 11 games, including a bag of seven in his side’s upset win against finals contender Westmeadows. On track for a spot in the Team of the Year.
Chris Ryall, Kilmore
Finished equal fourth in the NFL Division 3 league best-and-fairest and earned a place in the Team of the Year in 2019 as a 20-year-old. Ryall was dominant this season for Kilmore and sat third in the Coaches’ MVP award before injury struck. One of the most dominant midfielders at the level when fit.
Jack Sammartino, Northcote Park
A star in Preston Bullants’ VAFA Division 1 premiership in 2019 with 50 goals, he has battled injury this season at Northcote Park but still shown plenty of talent. The 21-year-old was the Cougars’ second best player on debut and has kicked seven goals in his eight games so far in NFL Division 1.
Liam Scott, Noble Park
The tall utility gained a lot of attention in 2019 after rising from the Noble Park under 19s, playing three matches for the Dandenong Stingrays and picking up an invitation to the state combine. He can run, he’s is strong in the air, versatile enough to hold down a wing as well as the key posts and has plenty of improving in him.
Tom Sheridan, South Croydon
The emerging Bulldog forward put his name up in lights earlier this season, impressing in the under 19s with bags of goals, including eight against Rowville and five against North Ringwood. After 17 goals in four games he bolted into the senior selection mix – where he’s since played five games for 11 goals. He’s an exciting prospect according to coach Marcus Buzaglo, noting he’s “got some serious upside”.
Lane Sinclair, Eltham
Made his senior debut as a 16-year-old in 2016 and is now one of the Panthers’ key players. Trained with Collingwood’s VFL side after his under-18 season, Sinclair is capable of doing damage at either end of the ground with his marking ability. Will have a big say in his club’s NFL Division 2 premiership push.
Lachlan Smart, Deer Park
The 21-year-old is a reliable small forward, averaging almost two goals a game for the Lions in 2021 after making the move from Sunshine and is hitting the scoreboard in crucial moments. The highlight of Smart’s season was a seven-goal haul against St Albans in Round 5.
Ben Stephenson, Mordialloc
Linked with the Bloodhounds from the Frankston District junior league and in his first season at senior level has paraded good pace, a leap and the versatility to play as a midfielder and forward. “Has a heap of upside,’’ Mordi coach Brendon Moore said.
Jake Sticca, Balwyn
Has played every game for the Tigers this season and has done really well, coach Rodney Eade says. Has played on the wing but plays mainly as a zippy small forward, highlighted by a best-afield performance against Norwood in Round 2, and three majors to feature among the best against Noble Park in Round 9. Previously listed with the Oakleigh Chargers.
Will Straford, Highett
The former Sandringham Dragon is vice-captain of Highett at the age of 19. Has played as an inside and outside midfielder, as well as a key forward and backman. “A tilt at VFL would certainly be within his capabilities,’’ Highett coach Brad Berry said.
Ibrahim Taha, West Coburg
Has enjoyed an outstanding maiden season of senior football after finishing runner-up in the EDFL’s under-17 Division 2 best and fairest two years ago. Taha has 17 goals from 11 games this season, including a haul of four against flag rival Tullamarine. He can also play on the wing and has showcased his speed and ability to read the play in 2021.
Daniel Tallariti. Northcote Park
The 20-year-old arrived from EFL outfit Templestowe this season and has been in Northcote Park’s best on just about every occasion. Has been named in the best in seven of his 10 games, playing a key role for the Cougars’ often under-siege defence. Undoubtedly one of the recruits of the NFL season.
Matthew Tighello, East Malvern
The strongly built onballer was recruited from the Oakleigh Chargers, where he had a NAB League Boys debut in 2019. That led to a pre-season with VFL club Port Melbourne. Plays with a ton of spirit and tenacity in a midfield headed by topliners Paul Fry and Luke Duffy.
Max Tessari, Caroline Springs
The Lakers boast an enviable stable of young players, and Tessari is one of the standouts. The 21-year-old midfielder has been outstanding in his second season of senior football, earning seven mentions in the best from 11 games in a consistent campaign.
Stefan Uzelac, Montmorency
To look at the imposing 195cm big man, you’d think he was closer to 30. One of Montmorency coach Garry Ramsay’s most trusted players, Uzelac is one of the best rucks in NFL Division 1 thanks to his ability below his knees. undersized but more than capable of holding his own against bigger ruckmen.
Jayden Weichard, Mooroolbark
The 19-year-old is part of an emerging midfield group at the Mustangs. Stepped into regular senior football as a 17-year-old in 2019 where he played 11 games and spent two seasons at the Eastern Ranges across 2018-19, and has lifted again this season. Has played eight matches in a season where the Mustangs have had to be without experienced key names through injury, and Weichard has been one of a number of rising stars to help fill the void nicely.
Bailey White, Montrose
The versatile midfielder is a mainstay in the Dees’ senior ranks following 2018 and ’19 on the Ranges’ list to go with five senior appearances in 2019 and 10 this year. He’s previously been described by club skipper Brendan Gardoll as an exciting prospect from his “pack-marking and ability to score”.
Ben White, Bayswater
Few, if any, can lay claim to the CV of this gritty Baysie midfielder, winning eight consecutive junior comp best and fairest awards from 2010-17. First debuted in the seniors as a raw kid in ’17 with two games that season, but he’s since been a regular in the ‘Waters’ 22. Was overlooked for Ranges squads in his underage years, but that didn’t diminish White’s determination to make it as a footballer. Finished fourth in Bayswater’s best and fairest count in 2019 and continues to lead from the front each week.
Lachlan Wynd, Rowville
Has burst on to the scene as one of the most exciting young forwards in the Eastern league this season, kicking 23 majors from seven matches so far.
Wiry and agile, he’s the son of none other than legendary league spearhead and current East Burwood coach, Stuart Wynd, who kicked more than 1000 goals across more than 300 games. Lachie is on Box Hill’s radar for 2022 after he filled in for a scratch match earlier this year, making an impression. “He’s got a real appetite to do well,” Rowville coach Ben Wise says.
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