Clarence tackling machine Oliver Davis crowned State League rookie of the year
A slight frame did nothing to stop Oliver Davis’s thirst for the contest, with the inside midfielder leading the TSL in tackles and taking home a major award. CHECK OUT THE YOUNG GUN’S HIGHLIGHTS >>
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TEENAGER Oliver Davis has proven he is not afraid to mix it with the big boys and his appetite for the contest has landed him this year’s Matthew Richardson medal.
The Clarence young gun, one of the state’s best AFL draft prospects, has done his chances of getting selected no harm by being crowned the TSL’s rookie of the year.
With the NAB League scrapped this year due to COVID-19, the Devils captain was able to hone his craft in the State League and was a major force behind the Roos’ resurgence, which ended in semi-final defeat last weekend at the hands of North Launceston.
Davis led the competition in tackles (average of 7.1 per game) and effective tackles (5.4), was fourth in handballs (9.6), 10th in disposals (19.7) and 10th in contested possessions (8.7).
“It’s very humbling to win this medal, especially with a few of the greats winning it before me and the likes of ‘Stando’ [Trent Standen] winning it for Clarence,” the 18-year-old said.
“I was pretty happy, I worked my way into it [the season] and had to get a feel for it, obviously the change of scenery coming from the Devils back into club land.
“I have grown as a player, especially mixing with a few of the older boys and learning off some new people has really helped me.
“I think we are pretty fortunate down here that we have got to fill out a full season and I suppose it might put us in good stead for the draft.”
Davis has been in regular contact with AFL club recruiters, and has had “four or five” online video catch-ups in recent week.
Clarence coach Jeromey Webberley said he would be surprised if his inside midfield beast didn’t attract close attention from clubs in December.
“For his first year of TSL senior footy he has been outstanding, he has had some super games but his consistency across the year for a 17/18-year-old coming into the competition is pretty outstanding,” Webberley said.
“I have spoken to a couple of clubs about Oliver, he has presented himself really well, we know he is a professional and his performance on the field has been so consistent.
“I can’t see how they can’t take him, fingers crossed it goes his way in the next month or so.”
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