DESPITE training with North Melbourne over the past few weeks, Werribee footballers Scott Sherlock and Kyle Hartigan did not get picked up at the AFL rookie draft last week.
Werribee coach Paul Satterley said while it was disappointing the two 19-year-olds didn’t get selected, their dream of playing in the AFL wasn’t over.
“Both acquitted themselves really well (at North Melbourne training), but unfortunately didn’t get picked up, but I think for them it’s a foot in the door, it was a great opportunity for them to showcase where they’re at.
“They’re both only one season into VFL footy, so for them to get that chance to train at an AFL club already was really great opportunity, and hopefully they can build on the season they had last year and more importantly if there are areas they can improve on, which is why they didn’t get picked up, that’s something we can focus on.”
Former Tiger Wayde Twomey got picked up by Carlton in the rookie draft. He spent the last three years playing for Perth side Swan Districts, where he was vice-captain.
“Any player who’s playing VFL footy, with the number of mature type players getting drafted, it sends a great message to all players,” Satterley said.
“If you’re excelling at VFL footy then you’re going to potentially get a look in. I think that’s something all the players are hanging on to.”
Geelong Falcons Michael Sodomaco and Tom Ruggles, who missed out on an AFL contract, will be playing at Werribee next year. “We see them as players with enormous scope and really exciting prospects for us as a footy club,” Satterley said.
