SINCE he was tipped nearly two years ago as a possible No.1draft pick, Hugh Goddard has become used to the pressure that comes withhis footy.
More of that has come this year,particularly after a slow start to the season. But after working hard,finding his best position and learning the craft of defence, hiscampaign gathered some speed toward the end.
Hemanaged to combine his responsibilities with a number of teams to have asolid season, and remains one of the most talked-about taller playersin this year's crop.
The cousin of Essendonstar Brendon, Goddard carries some similar personality traits in that heis focused, professional and dedicated in his approach to the game.
There aren't too many 18-year-old key defenders going around who have Goddard's athletic physique (196cm and 93kg).
Heuses that frame in marking contests, often nudging opponents out ofposition to hold a contested grab, or floating across a pack to take anintercept mark. He averaged almost seven marks a game at TAC Cup levelthis year.
Goddard is competitive, attacks theball in the air and lunges for it at ground level and has shown anability to shut down opposition key forwards.
Althoughhis versatility is also in his favour, it was good for him to settleinto a key defensive role later in the season for the Falcons and spendsome time in one spot.
An inconsistent season and championships made it difficult toassess Goddard's standing, but his end to the season was encouraging.
Ifhe can continue to keep his feet in contests he will be able to advanceat the next level, as well as eliminate some fumbles that occasionallycreep into his play.
On a quick break hisopponent can sometimes get away from him, but his straight-line speed isexcellent for a player his size (2.98 seconds over 20 metres at the NABAFL Draft Combine). Hip surgery as a bottom-aged prospect saw Goddardmiss a fair chunk of footy, and he took a while to recoup some of thatagility.
Good in the air and a strong mark, Goddard might end up being aplayer like Carlton's Lachie Henderson. Goddard's best footy was playedthis season in defence but he's always going to be the type of playerwho can swing forward if and when required.
Started the year seen as a possible top-five prospect but Goddard probably fits in a little later, somewhere in the top 15.
Goddard didn't have the super season he would have hoped for, buthe plugged away and it turned for him. It's hard to find versatile keyposition prospects, so he has strong draft value.
