IN a new weekly feature article highlighting the best upcoming NAB League talent, we take a look at who best staked their claim over the weekend, in ‘Caught the Eye’. For full scouting notes on each player’s game and more, click here. Note that the players mentioned were not necessarily the best performers, but ones who caught the eye with some promising glimpses.

Oakleigh Chargers vs. Western Jets

Cooper Sharman
Oakleigh Chargers | Tall Forward
25/07/2000 | 190cm |

Stats: 10 disposals, three marks, four tackles, 2.1

Our scouts said: “Continued his great form with more exciting moments, showing off his terrific vertical leap and clean set shot routine.” – Peter Williams

Verdict: Looks to be this year’s draft bolter after being prized from local footy, and is on the path to completing a great story. Earned a national combine invite and looks an exciting prospect, playing well above his 190cm height.

Josh Honey
Western Jets | Balanced Midfielder
17/10/2001 | 184cm | 85kg

Stats: 24 disposals, seven tackles, five inside 50s

Our scouts said: “Impressed throughout the game with a mix of offensive and defensive attributes… best of all for Honey was his clean use with a slippery ball.” – Peter Williams

Verdict: Is starting to again find some strong form after slotting back into the Western line-up and has obvious class. Can work on consistency, but is dangerous when forward and explosive through midfield.

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Tasmania Devils vs. Geelong Falcons

Sam Banks
Tasmania Devils | Wing
2/04/2003 | 184cm |

Stats: 14 disposals, two marks, three inside 50s, two rebound 50s

Our scouts said: “The 16-year-old has unbelievable class and poise… Banks’ best moments came with little baulks and clever props.” – Michael Alvaro

Verdict: It’s still early days for the Under 16 Division 2 MVP, but all the hallmarks are there for him to be Tasmania’s leading 2021 prospect. Has a damaging kick and will be one to watch with his skills in traffic.

Oliver Henry
Geelong Falcons | Intercept Defender
29/07/2002 | 186cm | 72kg

Stats: 24 disposals, 11 marks, eight rebound 50s

Our scouts said: “Henry’s clean hands and reading of the ball in flight were on full show, with his ability to rebound and find short options bringing a calmness to Geelong’s back half.” – Michael Alvaro

Verdict: Has great versatility and is really growing as a player despite Geelong’s down year. His reading of the play and strong hands overhead help him to influence the game up either end, so expect him to feature both as an intercept defender and lead-up forward over the next 12 months.

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Dandenong Stingrays vs. Eastern Ranges

Ned Cahill
Dandenong Stingrays | Midfielder/Small Forward
11/01/2001 | 178cm | 77kg

Stats: 18 disposals, five tackles, five inside 50s, 2.0

Our scouts said: “Cahill had a slow start to the game but he really came alive in the second and third quarters showing his fantastic work rate through the midfield and proving a dangerous option when forward.” – Ed Pascoe

Verdict: You’d already be well aware of Cahill’s ability and he just keeps on proving his worth with some more midfield time, while remaining productive up forward. Works hard, is smart, and hunts the ball, meaning he’ll most likely be a small forward at the next level.

Tyler Sonsie
Eastern Ranges | Midfielder/Forward
27/01/2003 | 181cm |

Stats: 20 disposals, five marks, six tackles, five inside 50s

Our scouts said: “Sonsie stood out with his quick reaction times and clean and crisp ball use.” – Ed Pascoe

Verdict: Is already well credentialed as the Under 16 Vic Metro MVP, and has acclimatised so well to NAB League football. Although he gives up some size against top-age opponents, Sonsie has competed well so far and oozes class. One to watch.

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GWV Rebels vs. Bendigo Pioneers

Josh Rentsch
GWV Rebels | Key Forward/Ruck
14/09/2003 | 196cm |

Stats: 13 disposals, six marks, seven hitouts, 2.1

Our scouts said: “Took a few really nice marks inside 50, showing signs that he could be one to watch over the next two years.” – Cam Ross

Verdict: Rentsch is fantastically mobile for a big-man, showing off his athleticism to date both overhead and below his knees. The 16-year-old is steadily improving and is sure to become an aerial force.

Josh Treacy
Bendigo Pioneers | Utility
4/08/2002 | 193cm | 88kg

Stats: 18 disposals, three marks, six tackles, five inside 50s, eight hitouts, 2.0

Our scouts said: “Best player for the Pioneers. Treacy won his own clearances in the ruck, and impacted further with tackle pressure at ground level.” – Cam Ross

Verdict: Has really shown off his versatility over the past few weeks, spending time at the centre bounces to add to his key forward and ruck crafts. Loves to throw his weight around and has strong hands, with some room left to grow over the next 12 months.