State Combine Hopefuls Jump at the Chance to ImpressFriday, October 14, 2022 - 7:18 PM - by Mark Readings

This year’s fairest and best player in the WAFL Colts competition headlines a group of 12 players selected to take part in Sunday’s State Combine. 

Jack Clarke Medallist Kane Bevan had an outstanding year with West Perth and will be looking to attract the interest of AFL clubs at the event. 

The Combine gives nominated players the chance to showcase their athletic prowess through several physical tests in front of AFL clubs. 

West Australian Football Commission State Talent Manager Adam Jones believes many of the players selected are worthy of being drafted. 

“State combine invitees had a lesser number of clubs nominate them to be tested but it still shows there’s interest from AFL clubs. 

There are generally a handful of State Combine testers drafted each year,” Jones said. 

Height, weight, agility, a 20-metre sprint and a 2km time trial will be tested as players look to catch the eye of recruiters.  

“There are some household WAFL players and state academy members including West Perth Captain Kane Bevan. 

Fellow Falcon Griff Julian, East Fremantle’s Jack Cleaver, and Connor McDonald are some other players who’ve had strong years. 

Sharks’ youngster Kaleb Smith was injured early in the season and missed State selection but had a strong finish to the year for East Fremantle and he’s one to watch. 

We have one mature age player, Toby McQuilkin from South Fremantle also invited,” Jones said. 

The State Combine event comes just a week after a dozen WA draft hopefuls travelled to Melbourne for the 2022 NAB AFL Draft Combine. 

Swan Districts’ Darcy Jones produced two stand-out performances. 

Jones broke a 14-year agility record previously held by former Dockers champion Stephen Hill and was a joint winner of the standing vertical jump test. 

Claremont’s Ed Allan starred in the 20-metre sprint test. 

WA STATE COMBINE DETAILS:

WHEN: SUNDAY 10AM-4PM 

WHERE: GOLD NETBALL CENTRE (JOLIMONT)  and ERN CLARK ATHLETIC TRACK (CANNINGTON)