THE GRASS stained whites and zinc cream are ready to be put away - with cricket almost over, the time has now come for the AFL prospectus to become an important part of our lives.

It’s time for partners all around Australia to accept the fact that for the next six months their loved one will be locked to a computer screen, trying to put together a winning formula in the hope of overall glory, individual league bragging rights, or both. Yes folks, AFL Dream Team is back for another year, and with the Dees’ first round of NAB Cup just around the corner, we take a look at five Demons you should be considering for your Dream Team in 2012.

James Magner - Midfielder ($85,800)
With Max Gawn and Jake Spencer both being put on the long term injury list during the week, Magner, who has arms bigger than Popeye’s, is a fantastic chance to be elevated to the senior list for the start of the season. After winning VFL club Sandringham’s Best and Fairest award in 2011, Magner comes to Melbourne as a mature age midfielder, ready to step straight into the Dees’ lineup if required. Seriously consider him as a cash cow for your side.

Nathan Jones - Midfielder ($424,700)
Mark Neeld loves hard in and under players, and Nathan Jones certainly fits into this mould. He got plenty of the ball in last week’s intra-club and certainly wasn’t afraid to put his body on the line. Jones had his best Dream Team season in 2011, averaging 86 points per game. He is also Mr Durable and rarely misses a game, playing 106 of a possible 110 over the past five seasons. We’re expecting Jonesy to average over 90 in 2012.

Jack Grimes - Backman ($329,400)
Is this year going to be his year? After another injury interrupted season in 2011, we are all hoping that Jack has some luck go his way in 2012 and can manage to stay on the park. After being named as a co- captain, supporters heaved a sigh of relief as Grimes got through the intra-club at Casey Fields last week, and looked to be moving well. At his price, he is definitely worth a punt, and can potentially average 80+ points per game.

Mitch Clark - Forward ($356,100)
After five seasons in the AFL, and a change of clubs, Clark has the maturity and experience to produce some big scores in 2012. He clunked some great marks in the intra-club match last week, and provided a big target up forward. Clark will definitely be a key option in the Dees’ forward line, and has the opportunity to get plenty of the footy. In his All Australian year of 2009, he averaged 94 points per game.  Can he produce this again?
Smokey

Colin Garland - Backman ($288,000)
From Rounds 20 to 24 last season, Garland averaged 83 points per game, including 124 points against the Gold Coast in Round 23. While his average over the whole season was only 58 points per game, he showed that he can rack up the possessions. At the price of $288,000, Garland could be worth a crack.