ONE of Balranald’s finest products is grabbing the attention of draft boards across the country thanks to a superb campaign at the NAB AFL National Championships.
Jason Gillbee is one of 67 Australian boys to receive an invitation to the 2022 AFL Draft Combine.
An invite to the combine is a massive boost for any potential draftee’s hopes, with a minimum of three clubs having to back nominees.
The event is held over three days, from October 7 to October 9.
On the first two days, interviews and medicals are conducted with clubs, and on the third, the young stars are put through a raft of physical tests.
These include a vertical jump, running vertical jump, 20-metre sprint and a 2km time trial.
Gillbee, 18 and 190cm, is coming off a strong showing for the Allies in the national championships.
He collected 21 disposals against South Australia and 18 in the game versus Western Australia, including five rebound 50s.
Gillbee’s best trait is his versatility, with his ability to play through the midfield, down back, or on tall or small opponents.
The position where clubs might look to draft him is half-back, where he can use his quality kicking skills and intercept marking abilities.
Another quality heavily looked at by recruiters is leadership, something Gillbee has in spades. He is a part of the leadership group at his NAB League club, the Bendigo Pioneers, which has helped him elevate his game to another level this season.
After averaging 11.7 disposals for the Pioneers last year, he lifted his stats to 21.9 from seven games so far this season, while averaging just under a goal a match.
Another promising sign for Gillbee is his recent addition to draft guru Kevin Sheehan’s top 30 prospects.
Gillbee played his junior footy at Balranald Football Netball Club and made his senior debut in 2019, when he played five games.
The will be an air of excitement at Balranald as one of their own pursues his AFL dream.
