The AFL Mid-Season Draft has increasingly become a pivotal pathway for emerging talent, and the Gippsland region continues to be a fertile ground for AFL prospects.
Over recent years, since the re introduction of the Mid Season Draft in 2019, five Gippsland League registerd players have been selected onto AFL lists . The consistent selection of players from the Gippsland region in the AFL Mid-Season Draft underscores the area's strong football development programs and the depth of talent present in regional leagues. As AFL clubs continue to scout for mature-age and ready-to-play athletes, the Gippsland League remains a vital source of skilled players poised to make their mark at the highest level.
2024 Mid-Season Draft Selections
Pick 3 – Jack Hutchinson (West Coast Eagles)
Jack Hutchinson, a high-flying forward originally from Wonthaggi in the Gippsland League, was selected by the West Coast Eagles with pick 3 in the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. After showcasing his aerial prowess and goal sense at Wonthaggi, Hutchinson transitioned to the VFL with Collingwood, where he continued to impress. His journey from local football to the AFL underscores the opportunities the mid-season draft provides for regional talents.
Pick 14 – Tom Hanily (Sydney Swans)
Tom Hanily, hailing from Leongatha and playing for the Gippsland Power, was picked up by the Sydney Swans at pick 14. The 18-year-old midfielder/forward had been averaging 25 disposals per game in the Coates Talent League, demonstrating his consistency and work rate. Despite being overlooked in the previous National Draft, Hanily's perseverance paid off, earning him a spot on the Swans' list.
Previous Gippsland League Success Stories
2023 – Ryan Maric (Pick 1, West Coast Eagles)
In 2023, Ryan Maric from Drouin and the Gippsland Power was the number one pick in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft, selected by the West Coast Eagles. Standing at 193cm, Maric made an immediate impact, debuting just 10 days after being drafted and scoring a goal with his first AFL touch. His rapid adaptation to the AFL level highlights the readiness of Gippsland talent.
2019 – Kyle Dunkley (Pick 3, Melbourne Football Club)
Kyle Dunkley, originating from the Sale and Footscray VFL, was selected by Melbourne with pick 3 in the 2019 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. The midfielder, known for his agility and ball-handling skills, played five games for Melbourne before continuing his career in the VFL with the Brisbane Lions.
Other players of note:
2021 – Jai Newcombe (Pick 2, Hawthorn Football Club)
Although he didn't feature in Gippsland League matches in season 2021, Jai Newcombe had registered to play with Warragul in 2021 before being drafted. The Poowong native's impressive performances with the Box Hill Hawks in the VFL caught Hawthorn's attention, leading to his selection at pick 2. Newcombe has since become a key player for Hawthorn, earning accolades such as the Peter Crimmins Medal in 2024.
