Clubs are reportedly expressing their frustration with the AFL over the contents of an assistance package that could be sent North Melbourne's way at the conclusion of this season, which could include the free-gifting of a top-ten draft talent.
The Kangaroos, who have managed a measly 11 wins across the past four seasons combined, are considered highly likely to receive extensive AFL assistance following the conclusion of the 2023 campaign.
As part of a potential post-season package, promising Tasmanian midfielder Ryley Sanders is a chance to make his way to Arden Street later this year, with clubs understood to be expressing their discontent at the prospect of not being able to swoop on the youngster with one of their own selections.
According to aย Herald Sunย report on Friday, rival clubs 'have registered their anger with league chiefs' over Sanders' potential unavailability at November's National Draft.
Sanders, tied to North Melbourne's next-generation academy due to his Indigenous heritage, made his mark earlier this year at the 2023 U18 National Championship, averaging 36 disposals, five clearances, and a goal per game to guide the Allies to a historic first title.
Per AFL rules, Sanders, as well as other next-generation academy-linked players, can be taken by any club which selects them in the top 40.
However, the 18-year-old could find his way to Arden Street as a 'pre-selection', which would allow North Melbourne to sign Sanders prior to the draft and still hold onto their original draft selections, with the Roos already currently holding two first-round picks.
Draft analysts currently place Sanders as a top-ten talent, leaving clubs disgruntled at the prospect of the midfielder not being available for selection.
North Melbourne already boasts a slew of exciting young midfielders, including Harry Sheezel, George Wardlaw, and Will Phillips. Therefore, the thought of the Roos having exclusive pre-draft access to Sanders has left a particularly sour taste in the mouths of rival teams.
An unnamed AFL recruiting manager voiced his opinion on the immoderate AFL assistance plans, speaking anonymously via The Herald Sun on Friday.
"The integrity of the whole competition is at stake when you talk about a club getting one of the top-six players in the draft for nothing," they reportedly said.
"Ryley Sanders was the best player at the national championships and should be available to all clubs if he is picked inside the top 40, as per the AFL rules.
"How can the AFL hand North Melbourne one of the country's best underage prospects for free when it directly contravenes their own NGA rules?
"Regardless of any other unrelated free agency compensation picks, it would be incredibly unfair on 17 other clubs if North were handed Sanders as a preselection.
"Clubs have spoken to the AFL about the reports, and it would strike at the heart of the integrity of the competition if they are given another star midfielder considering the talent already on the list and their upcoming picks this year.
"If there needs to be assistance, there are other ways to help, without interfering with the top few picks in the draft."
Speaking via AFL.com.au's Gettable, though, Sanders explained that his relationship with North Melbourne goes further than a typical team-scout scenario, noting his Roos connection goes back a number of years.
"It's good that North Melbourne are keen on me," said the young Tasmanian.
"I'd be happy to go anywhere. Whether it's North Melbourne or whenever I end up going, I'd be happy to just get a chance on an AFL list.
"I've been talking to North Melbourne since I was like 15, so they've always been good to me. If I ever need anything, they always say just let them know."
With restricted free agent Ben McKay considered likely to swap Arden Street for Essendon at year's end, the Roos are also in line to be handed top-end draft compensation.
Any potential assistance received by North Melbourne hasn't been confirmed as yet, with this year's National Draft slated to take place in late November.
