The AFL has today released the names of players invited to the 2022 NAB AFLW Draft Combine.
This year’s NAB AFLW Draft Combine will again be state-based, with dates and locations to be announced.
Among the 2022 NAB AFLW Draft Combine invitees are 78 players eligible for the NAB AFLW Draft for the first time, and a further 28 open-age players.
This year the NT scored three invites, those being TIO Northern Territory Football League’s Cassie McWilliam of Nightcliff, Grace Mulvahill of Southern Districts and J’Noemi Anderson of St Mary’s, all of which are also Cazalys NT Thudner Academy players.
The 2022 NAB AFLW Draft Combine will feature one physical test, with all players to complete a 2km time trial.
The reduction in testing at this year’s Combine takes into consideration changes to AFLW timelines, along with the significant amount of pre-season testing that was conducted nationally earlier this year.
AFLNT Talent Manager Simon Hargrave said he is excited for local talent to be a part of the Combine.
“This recognition is a real credit to the three girls who have put in the effort to get to where they are and is an awesome opportunity for our Territory women to be put on the national stage,” he said.
“NT representation at the Combine is a positive step for the future of women’s football in the Territory and seeing these girls be recognised for their efforts provides inspiration for the next generation.”
AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan said players invited to the 2022 NAB AFLW Draft Combine represented the next crop of AFLW stars.
“We are very excited about the high level of talent within this group of future stars of the AFLW,” Sheehan said.
“The 2022 version of the NAB AFLW Draft Combine will be shorter than those held in previous years, however the on-field performance of this group of players over the past season has provided a great indication that they will have a huge impact on the NAB AFLW competition.”
Last week, Hawthorn Football Club announced 2021/22 TIO NTFL Grand Final Best on Ground Williams Medallist Dominique Carbone of Darwin Buffaloes has committed to their inaugural AFLW side. This week, it was announced St Mary’s Eliza Shannon has also committed to the team.
For more information on the AFLW Draft Combine, click here.