Three Croweaters in 2022 NAB AFL U18 All-Australian Team

By ZAC MILBANK

Three South Australians have had their impressive campaigns rewarded with selection in the 2022 NAB AFL U18 All-Australian team.

West Adelaide’s Harry Barnett, Woodville-West Torrens’ Adam D’Aloia and Norwood’s Max Michalanney were chosen in the 23-player line-up after performing strongly at the 2022 NAB AFL U18 National Championships.

Despite only playing three of SA’s four matches, Barnett was adjudged the best ruckman at the Carnival after having an impact in the centre square and around the ground for the Torrens University SA U18 team.

The mobile 202cm utility averaged 12 disposals and 15 hit outs while displaying his strong hands overhead and developing ruck craft.

Torrens University SA U18 captain Adam D’Aloia was fittingly rewarded for his consistency across his team’s four matches, which also earned him SA’s MVP award.

The Eagles midfielder averaged 24 disposals at 78 per cent efficiency which included 14 contested possessions and five inside 50s.

Norwood defender Max Michalanney was the best player for the Croweaters in contests against the Allies and Victoria Country.

Unlucky to be squeezed out of the Redlegs’ team for the Hostplus SANFL League Grand Final, Michalanney averaged 13 disposals and five tackles while displaying his impressive closing speed to spoil his opponents.

All three players will be among the 14 SANFL prospects put through their paces at the AFL National Draft Combine to be held in Melbourne this weekend, from Friday October 7 to Sunday October 9.

The 2022 NAB AFL National Championships U18 Boys All-Australian Team was selected by a panel comprising Kevin Sheehan (AFL Talent Ambassador – Chairman), Tarkyn Lockyer (AFL National Academy Coach/Manager) and AFL club recruiters Scott Clayton (North Melbourne), Mark McKenzie (Hawthorn), Kelly O’Donnell (Melbourne) and Geoff Parker (Port Adelaide).