Whether you simply love the sport or want to make sure you pick the perfect players for your fantasy AFL team, knowing about often glanced-over players can make your season much more exciting.
At Picklebet, we always want to get our hands on the research so that you can enjoy the season without having to spend hours doing it yourself. Today we’re looking at which players in the AFL you should keep an eye on during the 2022 season.
Given the years behind us with Covid-19 related issues for so many industries, this season in the AFL is unprecedented, where many fresh players haven’t had much time on screen. We’ve scoured our sources, however, and present to you a list – in no specific order – of players, you should undoubtedly keep your eyes on during the coming season.
It’s going to be a good one.
Table of Contents
Jhye Clark – Midfielder
Starting off our list is a powerful midfielder, Jhye Clark.
Born on the 23rd of July 2004, Clark stands 180cm tall and weighs in at around 76kgs. His ability to contest play around the ball with his physicality is a massive asset to the Geelong Falcons and deservedly earned him the title of ‘Vic Country’s Best Player’ at the under-17s championships.
We believe at his young age; he still has many tricks up his sleeve that will likely surprise many viewers. He’s a ball-winning player, that’s for sure, and we’re excited to see him back on the field.
Elijah Hewett – Midfielder
Elijah was born on the 27th of May 2004 and stands 182cm tall, weighing 82kgs.
Another powerful midfielder, Elijah, had a tremendous last season for Swan Districts, collecting 22 disposals on average from eight games at the level. His skills in the midfield are undeniable after his key role in Swan Districts’ Grand Final win, and we’re sure he’ll put up another potent seasonal performance.
Harry Lemmey – Key Forward
Born on the 30th of January 2004, Lemmey has shown excellent performances in his last season with West Adelaide. He is 199cm tall and weighs 93kgs.
His performance saw him joining their League team, where he played senior games twice. However, the focus of his performance comes from his under-18s level play, where he managed 17 goals in seven games, which included the three kicked goals in each of the three finals games of the team.
In our opinion, he will put on a massive performance in the Key Forward position this year, and we’re keen to see how well his skills translate into the big leagues.
Will Ashcroft – Midfielder
Born on the 6th of May 2004, this Sandringham Dragons player weighs in at 74kgs and measures 183cm tall. His skills in the previous season showed clearly why this player deserves a spot on our list.
As the son of Brisbane triple premiership player Marcus Ashcroft, it’s safe to say that there was little doubt Will would step up to the plate and deliver excellent results in his career as an AFL player. After collecting 33 disposals, 12 clearances, and kicking two massive goals, it was clear that his dynamism on the field would take him far.
We could even potentially see him playing alongside his now-coaching father, which is indeed an event that would go into the history books.
Lewis Hayes – Key Defender
Born on the 17th of December 2004, Hayes towers over many attackers at 195cm tall. His under 17s performances showed great promise, and we’re keenly keeping watch to see what’s next for the young man.
He’s shown that he has a good eye for distributing the ball from the defense and plays an excellent overhead mark. Also Read – 10 Health Benefits of Playing Basketball
Oliver Hollands – Midfielder
Born on the 16th of January 2004, Oliver Hollands weighs in at 70kgs and stands 182cm tall. He is no stranger to the demands of the big leagues since his older brother – Elijah Hollands – was picked in last year’s draft.
Focused on his midfield play, Oliver managed to pick up 22 disposals and managed to snatch the best player of the mid-year for Vic Country. He is a clear contender for powerful midfield play, and we’re sure he will achieve excellence with the Bushrangers.
Harry Sheezel – Forward
Born on the 13th of October 2004, Sheezel weighs 73kgs and measures 183cm. His play for Vic Metro last year was more than good enough, which is why he’s on our list.
He’s shown time and again that he has a tactical mind for smart finishes when he manages to get the ball around the goal, which makes him dangerous in any game. When supported by the right midfielders, Sheezel has performed with outstanding results in the medium forward position.
So, there you have it.
Our top picks for the AFL players you should keep an eye on in 2022, whether for the upcoming draft or beyond.