AFLW Draft 2024: A Deep Dive into the Top Picks and Unexpected Twists

The tenth Telstra AFLW Draft unfolded as one of the most competitive and unpredictable drafts to date. A fully national draft for the first time eliminated all player selection restrictions, resulting in a high level of anticipation among clubs. While a general consensus existed regarding the top seven or eight picks, the subsequent selections proved far more intriguing.

The Top Contenders: A Look at the Leading Prospects

Several players vied for positions in the mid-first round, with one list manager famously remarking that picks 15 to 40 were virtually indistinguishable in terms of talent. This unprecedented depth created a fascinating dynamic, as clubs strategically navigated the draft, carefully weighing up various prospects.

Ash Centra: Collingwood's Number One Pick

A highly talented midfielder capable of playing across all three lines, Ash Centra emerged as a frontrunner. Her elite kicking skills, decision-making, and ability to impact the scoreboard cemented her status as a top pick. She was widely anticipated to be selected by Collingwood with the number one pick and that's exactly what happened. This further reinforced the depth of talent in this draft.

Molly O'Hehir: Melbourne's Mystery Pick

Molly O'Hehir, a West Australian player who had recently shot to the top of draft boards, presented a significant dilemma for Melbourne, who held the number two pick. The Demons faced a pivotal decision between O’Hehir and Zippy Fish, sparking widespread speculation and debate among fans and experts alike. The decision to select O'Hehir at pick two further elevated the intrigue around this draft.

Havana Harris: A Rare Talent

Havana Harris' exceptional versatility—able to play ruck, midfield, or forward—made her a standout prospect. Her blend of strength, size, pace, and agility made her a highly sought-after player. The bid for Harris, speculated to occur between picks two and four, was met by Gold Coast with pick 19, highlighting the strategic maneuvering employed by clubs.

The Mid-First Round Scramble: A Battle for Talent

The middle of the first round witnessed intense competition, as teams sought to acquire players with diverse skill sets and high ceilings. Several players like Gemma Belloni, India Rasheed, and Zippy Fish were heavily sought after, adding another layer of suspense to the drafting process. Each club had a clear strategy and this section highlighted the varying approaches taken. The selection of India Rasheed by Sydney underscored the need to fill certain positions, showcasing the depth and variety of talent.

The Later Picks: A Blanket of Uncertainty

Beyond the top picks, the draft's unpredictable nature continued to captivate viewers. Several players, such as Lucia Painter, Sierra Grieves, Sara Howley, and Chloe McDonald, each possessed distinct strengths and potential that appealed to different clubs based on their specific needs. The late first-round selections were marked by a high level of unpredictability and reflected the considerable talent pool.

The Sliding Doors Moment: Melbourne's Bold Choice

Melbourne's decision between Molly O'Hehir and Zippy Fish serves as a prime example of the strategic complexities faced by clubs. The ensuing uncertainty reflected the close competition amongst the high-caliber players. The decision to select O'Hehir marked a turning point in the draft, influencing subsequent selections.

Father-Daughter Picks and Academy Players: Adding More Complexity

Carlton's father-daughter pick, Sophie McKay, and the potential for multiple Gold Coast Academy players—led by Havana Harris—to be drafted added significant uncertainty to the draft order. Clubs needed to carefully balance their selections to match bids and remain competitive. This created a unique challenge given the rules surrounding matching bids and the limited resources available.

Unforeseen Twists and Turns: The Final Verdict

The 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft concluded with a mixture of expected and unexpected picks. Clubs that focused on drafting players who could contribute immediately alongside those with high growth potential. The draft revealed a remarkable depth of talent and showcased the bright future of the AFLW.

With so many talented players gracing this year's draft, the competition for coveted spots was fierce. The strategic decisions made by each club, along with the unexpected twists, created a draft for the ages. The 2024 AFLW season promises to be nothing short of thrilling. Several promising players like Georgia Knight, Georgie Brisbane, Zoe Hargreaves, Georgia McKee, Maggie Mahony, Claire Mahony, Millie Lang, Taya Chambers, Tara Harrington, Heidi Talbot, Sarah Poustie, Lily Paterson, Zoe Besanko, Holly Ridewood, and Paige Scott were also drafted, further strengthening their respective clubs.

The depth of this year's draft made it incredibly difficult to predict the outcome accurately and the uncertainty made it all the more exciting. The success of this draft hinges on each team's ability to cultivate these promising athletes and integrate them into a winning system.