Bacchus Marsh delights in AFL draft role this season

Hot on the heels of an exceptional year at the AFL draft table in 2014, Bacchus Marsh is once again looking to make an impact this season.

Cobras junior Daniel Foley is on the radar of AFL recruiters after making the final cut of the Vic Metro squad for the 2015 national championships.

Foley, 18, has enjoyed a brilliant season so far with TAC Cup affiliate side the Western Jets.

In his six matches, he has been named in the club’s best players on three occasions.

Three former Bacchus Marsh juniors were selected in the national draft last year.

Bacchus Marsh president Adam Sutherland said the past few junior seasons had been extremely exciting for everyone involved.

“Obviously most of the credit needs to go to the boys for all their hard work,” he said.

“From a club perspective, if you can help contribute to a young player fulfilling their dream in any way then it is a huge thing.”

In last year’s national draft, Liam Duggan joined West Coast, Dillon Viojo-Rainbow was taken by Carlton and Brenton Payne was selected by St Kilda.

“I think we have good coaches and a good coaching structure,” Sutherland said. “All those boys are very dedicated … they are giving themselves the best opportunity possible.

“I also think playing in winning and successful teams throughout their juniors builds successful habits as a team member and as an individual.”

As well as Foley, Bacchus Marsh has Hamish Coulton and Quade Butt on the Jets’ list this season.

“It is great for the younger boys around the club to see that being drafted is possible if you work hard,” Sutherland said.

“If you see someone has taken the same path as you and has been able to get to the AFL, it is going to be very encouraging.”