Western Australian captain Bo Allan has held firm as the top-rated prospect from his state, shaking off early season injury concerns to piece together a formidable draft campaign where he could flex his versatility and nous against experienced talent.
Allan earned a selection into the AFL Academy off the back of a promising bottom-age season, with the Halls Head product viewed mostly as a third-tall defender who was equally damaging behind the ball as he is with it in his possession.
He would start the year in that role with Peel Thunder's senior side before dealing with a back injury that delayed the start of his U18s National Championships carnival with WA.
Allan returned for WA's match against South Australia in a 67-point victory over the Croweaters, recording 19 disposals, six tackles and five clearances in a role through midfield.
He would hold his place in the centre for the rest of the carnival to average 20.0 disposals, 3.7 clearances, 6.3 score involvements and 6.0 tackles from his trio of appearances, proving to be a viable midfield option for scouts to consider.
Flexing his power, speed and defensive traits in the engine room, Allan would soon return to Peel Thunder's side in the club's journey to the WAFL premiership, with the teenager playing 11 games at the state league level to cap off a stellar year with a flag.
Rotating through the middle, defence and on the wing, Allan was able to prove himself against experienced opposition while bringing the traits of a leader that saw him earn the respect of his teammates.
Local clubs West Coast and Fremantle will both have their eyes on Allan with draft selections in the teens, while Richmond's array of selections and Port Adelaide's place in the queue at 13th overall could see Allan land at either club.
He earns comparisons to the likes of AFL stars Hayden Young, Elliot Yeo and Josh Weddle, giving his ability to be a midfield-backline dual threat, offering run, power and aerial prowess.
Position:ย Midfielder-Defender
Height:ย 191cm
State:ย Western Australia
Club:ย Halls Head
Strengths
Power
Versatility
Speed
Senior Experience
Draft Range
Pick 10-20
Potential Landing Spots
Richmond (Picks 10, 11, 18 and 20)
West Coast (Pick 12)
Port Adelaide (Pick 13)
Fremantle (Pick 14)
AFL Comparison
Hayden Young
Elliot Yeo
Josh Weddle
Expert comments
"He's been fantastic, I played a few games earlier this year with him. I can see he's a leader and a competitive beast, which hopefully will be recognised by AFL clubs" - Nathan Wilson
