AFL Draft 2014: Peter Wright selected by Gold Coast Suns
THE AFL national draft might be leaving Queensland in 2015, but “Two-Metre Peter” Wright hopes to make the Gold Coast his long-term home.
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THE AFL national draft might be leaving Queensland in 2015 but “Two-Metre Peter” Wright hopes to make the Gold Coast his long-term home after being recruited by the Suns on Thursday night.
The future hosting rights of the annual meat market is up in the air after the Gold Coast’s three-year deal expired with the AFL and the State Government at loggerheads.
However, the Suns are positive it has a genuine star of the future in the imposing form of the 203cm-tall, 102kg ruckman/key forward.
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The 18-year-old is incredibly mobile, agile and skilful for his considerable size and has great endurance.
The Suns see him as a lead-up centre half-forward capable of pinch-hitting in the ruck.
AFL National and International Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan said patience would be the key with Wright who played for the Calder Cannons in the TAC Cup under 18 competition and for Vic Metro in the national championships.
“I think he is going to be a match winner down the track but he’s 6’8, it won’t happen tomorrow,’’ Sheehan said.
Wright said he could not wait to meet Suns captain Gary Ablett and start what he hoped would be a long and successful association with the Suns.
“I was prepared to go anywhere. I’ve got no thought of going home, I’m really happy,’’ he said.
“It’s a boy’s dream really (to play alongside Ablett). I’ve been watching him the last 10 years, he’s been one of the best players in the competition. It’s an amazing opportunity.
“I’ll be a bit in awe but I’m looking forward to it.
“I’m stoked to get here. There’s a really good foundation for success moving forward.’’
The Suns also secured WA midfielder/small forward Jarrod Garlett with pick no. 15 and pint-sized midfielder Touk Miller from the Calder Cannons with selection no. 29.
Brisbane took Tasmanian Josh Watts with their top pick at no. 65.
The 194cm-tall key position player from the Glenorchy club can play at either end of the ground but is considered a better defender.
At 75kg, he needs to add some size to his frame but is considered a good athlete and good reader of the game.
Brisbane also secured speedy Bendigo midfielder Jaden McGrath at pick no. 73 and Tasmanian defender Josh McGuinness at pick no. 81
The Lions committed last month to securing top Queensland talent Liam Dawson (pick 44) and Harris Andrews (pick 61) with Academy selections.
Brisbane also locked in midfielder Josh Clayton with a father-son selection at pick 86 last month.
Southport’s Lachie Weller was taken by Fremantle at pick no. 13. The Queensland under 18 vice-captain said he was thrilled to be joining a genuine premiership contender who used their first selection on the midfielder.
“It means there’s good players around you so I’m going to be learning off the best,’’ Weller said.
“I had no clue I was going there. I’m absolutely stoked. It was great to hear my name read out. I came here knowing I could go anywhere and I’ll take any opportunity.’’
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