Two Goulburn Valley products will take a major leap towards achieving their AFL dreams in October.
Murray Bushranger Brayden George and Bendigo Pioneer Noah Long were both selected as part of the 67 boys invited to the 2022 AFL Draft Combine from October 7 to 9.
The first time a national combine has been staged since 2019, the duo will be put through their paces on and off the field, with AFL clubs keen get first dibs on the next generation of stars.
From Kyabram, 18-year-old George has been on the sidelines in recent months due to a knee injury.
Currently playing for both the Murray Bushrangers and Wangaratta Rovers, the talent played junior football at both Girgarre and Tatura.
George, who leads the Bushrangers’ goal-kicking, has impressed with his explosive pace, strength, marking and accuracy in front of goal.
Like George, Long has missed some game time through injury this season, however the Echuca export will be looking to return strongly.
The 17-year-old has pulled on the Bendigo Pioneers jumper once this season, however with a strong pedigree of football behind him already, he is sure to bounce back well.
AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan said the 2022 AFL Draft Combine provided a great opportunity for players to showcase their physical ability ahead of this year’s AFL Draft.
“The Draft Combine sees the best players from across Australia come together to showcase their abilities in front of AFL clubs,” Sheehan said.
“The players invited to the 2022 NAB AFL Draft Combine are considered by AFL clubs to be the leading prospects for the 2022 NAB AFL Draft.
“We are very excited about the high level of talent within this group of future stars of the AFL and it is extremely pleasing to have all states and territories represented as we return to a national Combine for the first time in three years.”
Both George and Long were nominated by at least three AFL clubs to attend the combine and will be aiming to catapult their draft chances at the event.