IN THE lead up to the 2021 NAB AFL National Draft, we’re taking the opportunity to look back on Melbourne’s recent draft years and the players that have gone on to become part of the club’s 2021 premiership.
In 2017, the club drafted premiership players Charlie Spargo, Bayley Fritsch and Harrison Petty.
Through the words of the club’s National Recruiting Manager Jason Taylor, let’s see the potential these players had when they first arrived at the club compared to their 2021 premiership season.
Charlie Spargo
2017
Draft: Pick No.29
Taylor on Spargo:
“Charlie’s got a rich history in the game, with his father playing for North Melbourne and the Brisbane Bears.
“In Charlie, we got that small we were after. He’s a small forward/midfielder and has got a really good athletic package.
“What we really like about his game is his intensity and aggression, his willingness and ability to cover the ground and we think he’ll be a good addition to the side.”
2021
Premiership season:
Although it may have taken a couple of years for Spargo to cement his spot in Melbourne’s starting 22, he really hit his stride this year, developing into an important component of the side’s forward line. The 21-year-old has become a significant role player with the ability to impact the game both with and without the footy. Highly valued within the club, Spargo was a major aspect to the Demons' 2021 success.
Bayley Fritsch
2017
Draft: Pick No.31
Taylor on Fritsch:
"We're really excited to get Bayley, not only for the strength of our alignment but because he's a really talented young player.
"He's a very good reader of the ball in the air, so he's exceptional overhead for a medium forward. He's quite classy with the ball in his hand, especially in front of goal.
“We’re rapt to give him an opportunity.”
2021
Premiership season:
Four years on and Fritsch has become a consistent member of Melbourne's forward line since his debut year in 2018. With each year, the forward has continued to improve upon his goal-kicking craft, reaching a career-high in 2021, collecting a total of 59 goals (the second highest tally in the league). The 24-year-old was not only a huge aspect of the club’s success this year but put up a memorable performance in Melbourne’s Grand Final win, kicking a whopping six goals.
Harrison Petty
2017
Draft: Pick No.37
Taylor on Petty:
“Harrison adds to our key defensive stocks, so we’re pleased to get him.
“He’s just a really calm and collected player who reads the ball well in the air. He’s cool under pressure with his decision-making and execution.
“He’s a country lad in South Australia and has a good character.”
2021
Premiership season:
In the four years since joining the Demons, Petty’s strength under pressure has been well exhibited, with the 21-year-old slotting into Melbourne’s starting 22 in Round 8 and remaining there for the duration of the season. Playing and performing against the likes of Tom Hawkins and Joe Daniher, the defender has shown leaps of development in 2021, going on to play a significant role in the club's premiership defensive unit.
