2016 AFL Draft prospects: Ben Ainsworth

Published by
Ben Pahor

Name: Ben Ainsworth
Position: Small forward
DOB: 10-02-1998
Height: 179cm
Weight: 74kg
Draft range: 5-15

Pub summary
Talented goal sneak and a good mark for his size, who can also move into the midfield.

Strengths

  • Goal sense
  • Marking
  • Leadership
  • Pressure
  • Speed

Weaknesses

  • Endurance
  • Goal kicking accuracy

Overall

Ainsworth is a highly talented small forward, with impressive aerial ability and sense for goal. The Gippsland Power captain can also push into the midfield at times, as he showed with his final month of the TAC Cup season, averaging 29 disposals and kicking 12 goals.

He will no doubt begin his AFL career as a forward, however, if he can build his engine and improve his endurance, he can also become a valuable midfield prospect for AFL clubs.

He also has electric speed off the mark when leading and great athletic ability.

 

Under-18 Championships statistics

  • Games: 3
  • Average disposals: 12
  • Average contested possessions: 5
  • Goals: 6
  • Average marks: 3.6
  • Average tackles: 1.7
  • Average clearances: 1.3
  • Average clangers: 0.5
  • Average inside 50s: 2

Highlights

Published by
Ben Pahor