Speedy WA Midfielders Impress AFL Draft ExpertThursday, November 10, 2022 - 3:43 PM - by Mark Readings

 WA duo Steely Green and Darcy Jones have come under notice from AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan ahead of this month’s 2022 NAB AFL Draft. 

Sheehan has released his top prospects in the small forwards, defenders, and midfielders’ group, all of whom took part in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft Combine or 2022 NAB AFL State Draft Combine. 

“South Fremantle’s Steely Green has been one of the surprise packets of the year with his ability to make an immediate impact in the League side, averaging 19 disposals (8 contested) and four tackles in eight WAFL matches. 

He brough his zest and competitive mindset into play for WA at the National Championships, averaging 15 disposals a match. 

A composed character with good vision and speed, he also makes excellent decisions with ball in hand. 

His athleticism was on display at the Draft Combine, with his 8.24 seconds on the agility test ranked fourth best, and his 6.17 seconds on the 2km time trial ranked seventh at the National Draft Combine,” Sheehan said. 

Swan Districts utility Darcy Jones also features in Sheehan’s profiles, with the highly skilled 18-year-old producing a stunning performance at the NAB AFL Draft Combine, breaking the agility test record which was previously held by Fremantle’s Stephen Hill since 2008. 

“A small midfielder who is quick, skilful and has footy smarts. 

All attributes were displayed at the National Championships for WA, where he averaged 20 disposals (8 contested), as well as finishing with four goals to win All-Australian honours. 

He showed rapid improvement and progression through the grades at Swans to play three senior matches after dominating in the Colts, winning the club fairest and best despite only playing six matches. 

Was the athletic star of the Draft Combine, smashing the agility test with a time of 7.70 seconds. 

He also ranked equal-first at the National Combine for the standing vertical jump, with his 75cm leap. 

Jones was also fifth for speed with a slick time of 2.91 seconds in the 20m sprint, highlighting his ability to break from stoppages,” Sheehan observed. 

The 2022 NAB AFL Draft will be held on Monday November 28 and Tuesday November 29. 

The 2022 NAB AFL Rookie Draft will follow on Wednesday November 30. 

Sheehan’s player profiles will be released by positional group every Thursday ahead of the Draft. 

Next week Sheehan will focus on the medium/tall midfielder Draft prospects.