MELBOURNE has capped off a big AFL Women’s Sign and Trade Period, securing the third selection in the Victorian Draft.
The Demons acquired the pick from Geelong, alongside the 23rd and 30th Victorian selections, while the Cats receive picks No.5, 13, 18 and 25 in the deal.
The move means Melbourne now holds the third, ninth, 11th 23rd, 27th and 30th selections, putting it in a strong position for this year’s event.
With activity to conclude on Wednesday, Demons’ list manager Todd Patterson said the Demons had achieved exactly what they wanted in the past week.
“This trade has allowed us to execute our strategy for this period,” Patterson told Melbourne Media.
“We viewed the Victorian selection No.3 as a key piece of our puzzle moving forward, and to have overall access to three of the best 11 talents within the Victorian Draft is a strong position to be in.”
The Dees have made some big trades since the beginning of the period, with a goal of attacking the draft and bring some fresh faces into their side.
While the approach has meant some turnover of their list, they are extremely confident in the ability and depth of what’s on offer.
“We have been watching the players in the draft pool for a number of years,” Patterson said.
“We had a thorough look at them at the start of this year to form some strong opinions, and we’re really confident in the amount of talent coming through.
“This is an exciting prospect for our footy club.”
And while the Demons are happy with their outcome of the period, they aren’t opposed to further movement.
“It is doubtful we will make any other moves in the final days, but with such a strong hand, we will remain open to any discussions,” Patterson said.
A full wrap of Melbourne’s AFL Women’s Sign and Trade Period will be available on melbournefc.com.au in the coming days.
