An ultra-athletic key-position swingman who has long been viewed as one of the premier talents in the 2026 pool. Currently managing knee tendinitis, though his rehab was completed within Port Adelaide’s high-performance system. Previously recognised as an All-Australian defender in 2024, he is equally capable in forward and midfield roles. His profile includes strong aerial ability, explosive first steps, powerful kicking range, and clean ground-level execution. Notably kicked four goals before halftime on SANFL League debut. Tied to Port Adelaide through NGA eligibility linked to Indigenous heritage.
A highly dynamic midfielder known for explosive movement and sustained output, long identified as a top prospect. As the son of former Carlton player Andrew Walker, he is already aligned to Carlton through father-son rules. Has produced strong performances across Bendigo Pioneers, AFL Academy, and Carlton VFL environments, including senior preseason exposure with the Blues. Covers ground relentlessly, impacts scoring chains, and wins stoppage contests with clean outside distribution. Set to co-captain Vic Country. Decision-making under pressure remains an area of growth.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Walker made an immediate impact for Vic Country against the Allies and looked every bit the elite talent he's projected to be. He influenced the contest early with several important involvements before an AC joint injury forced him from the game. While his outing was cut short, recruiters were encouraged by what they saw prior to the setback and attention now turns to how quickly he can return.
Widely considered the leading open-pool ruck option in the 2026 class. A physically dominant 205cm athlete with exceptional vertical leap and rare agility for his size. Recorded top-tier results in Talent League athletic testing, particularly in running vertical jump. Combines aggression, mobility, and forward craft to project as a modern ruck/forward hybrid capable of influencing hitouts and scoreboard impact. Strong marking, clean kicking in space, and follow-up work stand out. Viewed as a genuine candidate for selection at pick one level.
A dominant force at junior level who has outgrown typical Under-18 competition through sheer production. Produces elite statistical output across ruck contests, clearances, and general play involvement. Combines ruck craft with strong mobility and increasingly refined forward impact, including contested marking and goal conversion. Was narrowly overlooked for state selection last year due to competition from elite ruck Sam Ainsworth. Projects as a modern athletic ruck in the Tim English mould.
A fast-rising defensive prospect now pushing into early first-round discussion after a strong start to 2026. Widely regarded as the standout key defender in the cohort. Excels in intercept marking, aerial contests, and composed ball use under pressure. Reads opposition movement early and transitions cleanly into attack, showing strong fundamentals and decision-making. Has football lineage connections through extended sporting family ties. Consistency at this level could cement top-10 status.
An electrifying forward-half player capable of match-winning bursts and scoreboard dominance. While primarily a small forward, he has also developed midfield capability during 2026. At 182cm, he combines power, agility, and aerial ability to create matchup problems across multiple roles. Can produce elite highlight output but occasionally lacks consistency across four quarters. Was Vic Metro’s standout at Under-16 level and remains one of the most high-ceiling players in the pool.
A highly competitive South Australian leader and expected state captain at the National Championships. Strong inside midfielder with explosive clearance ability and powerful acceleration out of stoppages. Equally effective when rotating forward, where he contributes goals and aerial contests. Brings physicality, intensity, and strong contest work to every game. Disposal consistency remains an area for refinement, though his competitiveness and versatility are major strengths.
One of the early breakout players of the 2026 season after overcoming a delayed start due to injury. Quickly established himself as a damaging midfielder through explosiveness and stoppage impact. Strong performer at APS level and standout in Vic Metro trial matches. Uses power to break congestion and consistently drives forward entries. Capable of impacting as a forward option as well. Strong championship form could elevate him into top-tier draft contention.
A highly respected leader and widely valued teammate expected to co-captain Vic Country. Known for elite competitiveness, defensive effort, and consistent two-way running. Plays primarily on the wing or half-back, where he combines speed, pressure, and clean disposal. Despite size limitations, he consistently wins contested moments through strength and technique. Multiple best-on-ground performances at representative level underline his influence. Playing style shows similarities to Errol Gulden.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Williams showed flashes of his considerable talent before his game was interrupted by injury. Although he wasn't able to complete the match, there were enough moments to remind observers why he is rated among the leading prospects in the pool. The main focus now is the extent of the injury and whether it affects the remainder of his championships campaign.
Western Australia’s leading 2026 prospect, recognised for elite ball use and endurance. Exceptional at linking chains through precise kicking and composed decision-making on both sides of the body. Has developed through wing and half-back roles with Claremont and WA representative teams. Strong transition player capable of covering large areas of ground. Midfield exposure is expected, though contested consistency remains an area for development.
A leading prospect from the NSW/ACT region with strong outside-run capabilities. Excels on the wing and half-back where he provides clean ball use and structured transition play. Has already gained exposure at Allies level and VFL environments, demonstrating his ability to adapt to higher intensity football. Strong decision-making and composure stand out, with developing inside game traits suggesting future midfield expansion.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Matthews was among the most influential players on the ground in the Allies' victory over Vic Country. The GWS Academy midfielder dominated around stoppages, collecting 35 disposals and 11 clearances while repeatedly launching attacks from the contest. His ability to win first possession and drive his side forward made him one of the standout performers of the match.
A breakout midfielder whose performances have rapidly elevated draft attention. Known for relentless contest work, repeat efforts, and powerful ball movement from congestion. Combines physical strength with endurance, allowing him to sustain impact across four quarters. Also provides aerial presence when forward. Often compared stylistically to Finn Callaghan due to explosiveness and transition ability. Strong clearance production defines his game.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Drever was one of Vic Country's better contributors and consistently found the football throughout the contest. Finishing with 22 disposals, he worked hard through the midfield and provided valuable ball movement and composure under pressure. His performance was a positive in an otherwise difficult afternoon for his side.
A highly productive forward who dominated the scoreboard in 2025 with consistent goal output, including multiple high-haul games. Strong marking ability on the lead and overhead allows him to convert reliably inside 50. Unfortunately suffered an ACL injury early in 2026, placing uncertainty on his draft preparation timeline. Despite injury concerns, his bottom-age production remains highly regarded by recruiters.
A dynamic small forward/midfielder who thrives in forward-half contests. Exceptional at ground level with strong hands, pressure acts, and goal sense. Produces high scoring output when in form, averaging near elite goal numbers early in 2026. Has NGA ties to the Western Bulldogs. Disposal inconsistency remains an issue, though his impact when effective is significant and game-breaking.
A medium forward with strong football lineage as the nephew of former West Coast forward Mark LeCras. Combines marking ability with mobility and polished kicking technique. Capable of playing both as a forward target and on the wing, where his aerial strength and left-foot kicking are assets. Presents as a versatile offensive threat capable of stretching defensive structures.
A quick and dangerous small forward with the capacity to influence games rapidly. Known for speed, goal sense, and high-pressure forward craft. Participated in the 2025 National Futures game alongside several elite peers, confirming his standing among top-tier prospects. Considered one of the more AFL-ready small forwards in the class.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Neocleous demonstrated his flexibility by contributing both through the midfield and in attacking positions. He found ways to impact the game in multiple roles, showing good involvement around stoppages while also creating opportunities closer to goal. His versatility remains one of the key traits attracting attention from talent scouts.
An athletic midfielder with strong outside running ability and overhead marking strength. Currently more effective as a linking wing/half-back option but has potential to transition inside midfield roles as he develops physically. Reads play well and shows composure with ball use. Still refining consistency in contested situations.
A strong-bodied midfielder who thrives in contested situations and accelerates quickly out of stoppages. Consistently produces high-impact clearance work and contributes forward when resting. Shows clean marking ability for a midfielder and strong work rate across phases. Stylistically compared to Sid Draper. Strongly linked to St Kilda recruiting interest.
A high-energy forward with explosive athletic traits and strong aerial ability. Capable of producing match-defining bursts including multiple-goal performances. Son of former AFL player Stephen Patterson. Uses pace and vertical leap to create separation and scoring opportunities. Has shown injury interruptions but remains a dangerous attacking presence when fit.
A highly versatile athlete capable of playing across multiple positions including defence, wing, forward, and ruck support. Best suited as a key defender but offers genuine utility value across all zones. Moves fluidly for his size and impacts games through adaptability and athleticism. Viewed as a rare “multi-role” prospect.
A highly talented marking forward with significant upside, combining strong aerial ability with athletic traits. Son of former North Melbourne player Jason McCartney and eligible via multiple academy pathways. Long-term injury in 2026 will likely limit draft visibility, though clubs remain aware of his long-term potential.
A creative and unpredictable half-forward who consistently finds space and converts opportunities inside 50. At 190cm, he presents as a strong aerial target with genuine highlight ability, capable of taking contested marks or leading cleanly into space. Delivered a standout five-goal performance in the 2025 National Futures match on AFL Grand Final day and previously played a decisive role in Vic Country’s Under-16 championship success in 2024. His speed and agility make him difficult to match defensively, with the added upside of developing into a wing/transition runner.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Malady showed plenty of promise inside forward 50, presenting strongly in the air and finishing with two goals. His marking ability gave Vic Country a reliable target ahead of the ball, and he regularly challenged defenders in one-on-one contests. The match highlighted the strengths that make him an intriguing key-forward prospect.
A compact, strong-bodied midfielder/forward who combines intelligence with consistent involvement around the ball. Regularly finds time and space through smart positioning and clean decision-making, allowing him to accumulate possessions and contribute on the scoreboard. Known for his toughness in contests and ability to stay involved repeatedly throughout games. While his kicking execution can fluctuate, his game sense and reading of play are major strengths.
A physically dominant inside midfielder who wins contests through sheer strength and relentless application. Produces high possession numbers through pure contested work and thrives in stoppage situations. Can push forward effectively where his strength overhead becomes a weapon. Initially linked to West Coast before being associated with Fremantle through NGA eligibility connected to Zimbabwean heritage. Produced a strong performance against Claremont’s midfield on grand final day in 2025.
A rebounding defender who drives play through run-and-carry and controlled ball movement. Uses neat disposal skills to maintain possession while transitioning out of defence and is capable of adjusting angles to open up the ground. Strong at ground level and provides consistent overlap support. Has also featured across multiple defensive roles and represented both Allies and Brisbane’s VFL program. Viewed as part of Brisbane’s growing academy talent pipeline.
A powerful midfielder capable of influencing both contested and outside phases of play. Wins the ball effectively at stoppages and can also impact in space during transition. Has the ability to drift forward and contribute scoreboard impact when resting deep. Currently sidelined to start 2026 due to injury, but remains highly regarded within recruiting circles as one of South Australia’s key midfield prospects.
An emerging Western Australian talent gaining attention through consistent improvement and strong athletic traits. Brings energy and work rate across multiple positions and continues to develop his overall game impact. Considered one of WA’s more promising young prospects based on current trajectory.
A tall, physically imposing forward/ruck hybrid with significant upside but variable output. Uses aggression in the air, long kicking range, and strong marking ability to influence contests. Delivered a best-on-ground performance during Parade College’s Herald Sun Shield campaign, showcasing mobility and contested marking strength. At 199cm, he primarily plays forward but can support in the ruck. Still developing consistency in accumulation and week-to-week production.
A versatile utility-type player who relies on football intelligence, positioning, and clean skills rather than elite athleticism. Consistently finds the ball and makes composed decisions under pressure. Strong overhead and capable of contributing both defensively and offensively, particularly as an interceptor or linking option. Part of a talented Claremont group.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Gale played an important role in Western Australia's ball movement, frequently helping connect defence to attack with his distribution. He repeatedly found ways to advance the ball into scoring areas and was involved in numerous attacking chains. His composure and decision-making in transition helped keep pressure on the South Australian defence throughout the afternoon.
A balanced key forward who contributes through both marking contests and ground-level involvement. Capable in the air and on the lead, while also applying forward pressure when the ball hits the ground. Plays with physical intent and has a solid ability to hit the scoreboard without requiring high possession counts. Next step is improving consistency and weekly output across full seasons.
A high-intensity midfielder known for competitiveness, defensive pressure, and relentless effort. Wins contested ball consistently and provides strong two-way running to support teammates across the ground. Effective as a linking runner between contests. Disposal can be inconsistent, but his work rate and physical presence are constant strengths.
An early-season breakout key forward who announced himself with a dominant seven-goal performance. Strong overhead marking ability combined with athletic movement allows him to impact as both a leading and contested target. Works hard defensively and maintains involvement at ground level, giving him a relatively complete forward profile when in form.
A small, inventive forward who thrives on creativity and scoreboard impact. Capable of drifting higher up the ground to accumulate possessions before pushing forward to finish plays. Plays with confidence and flair, often generating scoring opportunities through pressure and clever movement. Despite size limitations, competes strongly and consistently impacts forward-half contests.
A hard-edged inside midfielder who brings aggression, tackling pressure, and strong contest work. Effective at extracting the ball and applying immediate forward momentum. Has solid kicking skills and plays with a clear intent to move the ball quickly. Offers energy and consistency across midfield rotations and remains a Northern Knights product with upside.
A strong-bodied midfielder who thrives in contested situations and drives play through physical presence. Capable of breaking through congestion while also contributing defensively when required. Comfortable both inside stoppages and in aerial contests when rotating back. Highly team-oriented and adaptable across multiple midfield roles.
A composed midfielder who accumulates possessions efficiently through smart positioning and consistent running patterns. Uses clean hands in congestion and helps link play through safe but effective ball use. Comfortable using either foot and regularly contributes in clearance situations. Reliable rather than flashy, with strong consistency as his key trait.
A small but powerful midfielder/forward who plays with notable aggression and burst speed. Able to break from stoppages and create scoring opportunities inside 50. Strong at ground level and applies pressure defensively, while also showing clean short kicking in tight spaces. Provides a flexible mid-forward option with impact potential.
A hardworking accumulator who consistently finds the ball through repeat efforts and smart running patterns. Moves well through traffic and distributes effectively with neat skills. Maintains strong involvement across all phases of play and contributes solid defensive pressure. Reliable ball-winner with steady production.
A key defender regarded as one of the most composed intercept prospects in the 2026 pool. Despite missing his bottom-age year due to stress fractures, he earned All-Australian honours at Under-16 level and has since returned to Coates Talent League football. Reads the play exceptionally well, positions himself effectively, and compensates for limited speed through anticipation and game sense. Strong in one-on-one contests and reliable overhead. Also spent time as a Vic Metro train-on despite injury interruptions.
A medium-sized defender with strong athletic traits and significant developmental upside, linked to West Coast through NGA pathways. Covers ground with an easy blend of power and fluid movement, and has a natural ability to impact aerial contests through his vertical leap and intercept work. Shows intent to drive play forward aggressively. Still developing defensive consistency, particularly in decision-making and tackling. Raw but highly promising, with standout moments in the 2025 National Futures game.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Kenh was not selected in Western Australia's first match of the national championships, meaning he is yet to record a performance at the tournament. However, he remains part of the squad setup and may be called upon in upcoming fixtures as the carnival progresses.
A physically mature defender capable of also rotating into midfield roles when required. Relishes physical contests and is strong in one-on-one situations, often winning the ball through courage and strength. Has the ability to intercept in risky positions and launch attacks from defence. His long kicking is a notable weapon, particularly in open play, though execution can vary under pressure.
An attacking rebound defender who plays with high energy and constant forward momentum, representing the Suns Academy system. Recognised as Gold Coast’s standout performer at Under-16 level and also represented Queensland at Under-17 level. Excels at moving the ball quickly out of defensive 50 with confidence and precision. Combines running endurance with solid disposal efficiency and is capable of transitioning into midfield roles in the future.
A versatile defender who can adapt across lockdown, intercepting, and rebounding roles depending on team needs. Offers valuable flexibility across the defensive half. Missed the early portion of 2026 due to injury but remains highly regarded based on previous national championship performances. Known for competitiveness and reliability in defensive contests.
A lightly built but explosive athlete whose preseason testing highlighted elite speed-power traits. An injury setback has limited his 2026 campaign to date, but his bottom-age form showed strong contest appetite and improving stoppage craft. Also carries Essendon NGA ties, adding further interest from recruiters.
A tall ruck prospect with strong leap mechanics and reliable hands at ground level. Primarily operates as a ruck but can drift forward and contribute around goal when resting. Athletic profile allows him to stay involved around the ground. Still developing physical strength and consistency, but possesses clear long-term upside due to size and mobility.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Western Australia received outstanding service from van Rooyen in the ruck, with the big man consistently putting the ball into advantageous positions for his onballers. Beyond his dominance in the air, he was active once the ball hit the ground, collecting clearances and helping his side win territory through the middle of the ground. His influence at stoppages was a major reason WA were able to dictate terms for long stretches of the game.
A forward who operates across small-to-medium roles and consistently impacts the scoreboard. Effective both as a leading target and as a crumbing presence at ground level. Brings strong defensive intent through tackling pressure and does not require high possession numbers to influence games.
A lively small forward known for agility, creativity, and attacking intent. Uses evasive movement and sharp finishing to generate scoring opportunities and challenge defenders. Has shown improved ball accumulation early in 2026, an area that will need to be sustained over time. Linked to West Coast through NGA eligibility.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>McGlade made the most of his opportunities in attack and was one of Western Australia's most threatening forwards. He hit the scoreboard multiple times while also bringing strong defensive intensity when the opposition had possession. His ability to stay involved both in the air and at ground level made him one of the standout small forwards from the opening round of the championships.
A physically strong midfielder who uses his size to dominate contests and secure possession consistently. Wins the ball effectively in congestion and holds his ground well in stoppage situations. Development focus remains on improving disposal composure, decision-making under pressure, and athletic output to elevate overall impact.
A highly skilled and intelligent player with strong vision and elite ball use by foot. Reads the game early and consistently identifies attacking options. Comfortable intercepting in defence and holding his own in one-on-one contests. Expected to transition into a more central midfield role over time. Lacks elite pace, which may influence projection at higher levels.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>Although South Australia spent significant periods on the back foot, Matthews-Hampton continued to compete hard and remained engaged in the contest. He worked diligently across the ground and consistently looked to impact the play whenever opportunities arose. While others attracted more attention statistically, his persistence and effort did not go unnoticed.
A fierce and energetic small who can influence games across multiple zones of the ground. Plays with high intensity and consistently engages in contested situations despite size limitations. Drives play forward with speed and aggression while also impacting defensively. Disposal consistency remains an area for refinement. Holds Richmond NGA connections.
A compact midfielder who has started 2026 in excellent form through consistent ball winning and scoreboard impact. Comfortable both inside contests and in outside accumulation phases. Plays with strong confidence, clean skills, and high football intelligence, enabling him to influence games regularly.<br><br><strong>U18 Championships game 1</strong><br><br>McNicol showed plenty of determination in a difficult outing for South Australia, refusing to drop his intensity despite the challenges his side faced. He remained active around the ball and continued to contest strongly throughout the game. His willingness to keep competing from start to finish reflected positively on his performance.
A highly skilled forward with outstanding vision and ball use who has attracted attention despite limited preparation due to injury interruption. Compact in stature but extremely clean and creative in possession. Excels in tight spaces and is widely regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing players in the pool when in form.
A wingman prospect from the Sydney Academy system known for clean disposal and consistent outside running. Alongside his twin brother, forms part of a highly regarded academy pairing. Provides width, ball movement, and composure on the wing, with strong interest from talent pathways due to his consistent output.
Twin brother of Guy, also an outside-running wing prospect within the Sydney Academy structure. Shares similar traits including clean kicking, running capacity, and ability to link play effectively. Both brothers are viewed as developing AFL Academy-level talents with strong long-term potential.
A rebounding half-back who transitioned through multiple academy systems before settling into South Australian development pathways. Shows strong ball use, composure under pressure, and ability to generate drive from defensive 50. Performed strongly in WAFL Under-20 competition and continues to develop consistency.
A South Adelaide-based prospect forming part of a strong South Australian talent group alongside other emerging midfield and utility players. Known for balanced attributes and steady development within a competitive junior environment.
A rapidly rising 2026 prospect who has impressed in trial environments with explosive athleticism and strong forward-mid impact. Capable of rotating through centre bounce and pushing forward to hit the scoreboard. Combines speed, power, and attacking instinct, making him a modern hybrid midfielder-forward suited to high-tempo systems.