SANFL’s first round draftees full of excitement

By ZAC MILBANK

SANFL’s three first-round draftees are still buzzing after having their names called out at the AFL Draft on Wednesday night.

South Adelaide’s Jason Horne-Francis, Glenelg’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Central’s Leek Aleer gathered at the Adelaide Oval full of enthusiasm as they sported their new guernseys for the media.

Selected at No.1 by North Melbourne, Horne-Francis revealed that he proudly slept in his Kangaroos jumper after being the first South Aussie to be taken first in an AFL Draft since 2006.

The dynamic utility said he chose the No.6 guernsey to make a name for himself wearing that number despite being offered the No.18 worn by Kangaroos premiership captain Wayne Carey.

After being presented his first North guernsey by Hall of Famer Malcolm Blight last night, Horne-Francis was chuffed to pose for photos in front of Blight’s statue outside of the home of SA football.

Wanganeen-Milera paid tribute to Glenelg League coach Brett Hand for believing in him to play senior football this year, admitting it had played a strong role in his rapid development.

Set to play for St Kilda, the same AFL club as his father Terry, the pacy wingman is keen to forge his own path at elite level with the Saints.

The nephew of Port Adelaide and Essendon great Gavin Wanganeen said he received a phone call from his uncle last night after being selected at pick No.11.

Undoubtedly the feel good story of the AFL Draft on Wednesday night, Central’s Leek Aleer was riding high on the emotion displayed by his family upon his selection by Greater Western Sydney.

Selected earlier than expected at pick No.15, Aleer said he had already spoken to Giants star Lachie Whitfield, who welcomed him to the club.

The intercept defender is relishing his chance to represent the South Sudanese community while emulating the feats of his role model, Port’s Aliir Aliir.