2023 AFL Draft Profiles

AFL Draft Profile: Arie Schoenmaker

The Tasmanian teenager bounced back from a 10-week suspension to be in first-round contention.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Tasmanian Arie Schoenmaker bounced back from an early season indiscretion to place himself in contention as a top 20 draft prospect.

The Launceston teenager was suspended for 10 weeks by the Devils for an alcohol-related incident at a pre-season training camp this year, forcing him to miss out on the start of the 2023 Talent League season.

Schoenmaker wouldn't play until Round 8 of the season and would also be limited to two matches with the Allies in their title-winning National Championships run.

The 194cm defender would put the adversity behind him however, playing a pivotal role in Tasmania's Talent League campaign to help the Devils claim the minor premiership and a top four finish in the post-season.

The long-kicking backman averaged 27.0 disposals from his eight appearances to only trail top five prospect Colby McKercher among Tasmania's ranks, while amassing a mean of 5.9 marks and also being able to pinch-hit in the ruck.

Schoenmaker would impress in his pair of opportunities for the Allies at the higher level, flexing his clean ball use and run while also pushing further up the field to have a scoreboard impact thanks to his attacking tendencies.

Known for his efficient long-range kicking, Schoenmaker would even earn an invite for the Longest-Kick Competition on grand final day this year.

A selection of Schoenmaker could come at the opening night of the National Draft, with his range expected to fall between Picks 20-40.

Clubs such as North Melbourne (Picks 15, 17 and 18), Collingwood (Picks 19 and 33), Richmond (Picks 29 and 41) and Brisbane (Picks 30 and 39) could have Schoenmaker in their sights.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 02: Arie Schoenmaker of Allies kicks during the 2023 AFL National Championships U18 Boys match between the Allies and Vic Metro at Brighton Homes Arena on July 02, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Position: Defender
Height: 
194cm
Weight: 91kg
State: Tasmania
Club: Launceston

Strengths

Long Kicking
Disposal
Line-Breaking

Draft Range

Pick 20-40

Potential Landing Spots

North Melbourne (Picks 15, 17+18)
Collingwood (Picks 19+33)
Richmond (Picks 29+41)
Brisbane (Picks 30+39)

AFL Comparison

Noah Balta
James Sicily

Expert comments

"Left-footed tall defender who reads the game exceptionally well to intercept and is a prodigious kick of the ball. Had a very impressive back half of the year, which included being selected for the Allies in their final two matches of the National Championships." - Kevin Sheehan

Published by
Mitch Keating