Sandringham Dragons midfield-forward hybrid Olli Hotton is a speed machine that is sure to bring flash and flare to the AFL at this month's National Draft.
The Hampton Rovers product is in the conversation as a consideration for clubs within the first round of the draft, with Hotton's range extending to midway through the following round.
Hotton entered the season as a formidable half-forward option, burning past his opposition to deliver laser-like ball movement in his side's forward third.
After moving into the midfield alongside the likely top 10 prospects Will Ashcroft and Cameron Mackenize, Hotton's stocks ascended along with his ball-winning.
By the end of the year, Hotton had pieced together a strong year with both the Dragons and Vic Metro. The 182cm prospect had a pair of standout performances, collecting 26 disposals and 2 goals against Oakleigh in Round 16, a performance that came weeks after a 24-disposal and 3-goal outing against South Australia.
Hotton's pace was on show throughout the year in the NAB League and at the National Championships, while the talented teenager also impressed AFL scouts at the Draft Combine, posting top scores and times at the standing vertical and 20-metre sprint tests.
Collingwood and Carlton fans would be wishing Hotton's father, Trent, would've extended his AFL career at either club, having amassed 17 matches with the Magpies and 61 with Carlton across a nine-year career.
Hotton could still find himself at Collingwood should the Pies move on the versatile half-forward option with one of their opening two selections, while the Giants, Bulldogs and Hawks are also seen as fitting landing spots for the 18-year-old.
Boasting the ability to play through the middle and as a forward threat, Hotton draws comparisons to Brisbane livewire Zac Bailey.
Position: Forward/Midfielder
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Hampton Rovers
Date of Birth: 06/09/04
Height: 182cm
Weight: 80kg
Strengths
Speed
Disposal Efficiency
Agility
Versatility
Weaknesses
Inside Game
Draft Range
Late First Round to Early Second Round
Potential Landing Spots
GWS (Picks 15, 18), Collingwood (Picks 16, 25), Western Bulldogs (Pick 21), Hawthorn (Pick 24)
AFL Comparisons
Zac Bailey
Michael Frederick
Sam Wicks
Expert Comments
"Quick and agile forward and midfielder with a very good feel for the game. Has emerged as a real AFL prospect this year. Was outstanding for Victoria Metro in the National Championships and earned All-Australian honours. His performances included a starring effort in the comprehensive win over South Australia, with 24 disposals and three goals." - Kevin Sheehan
