Western Australian tall Zane Zakostelsky was a late bloomer this year, with his final appearance for Claremont's Colts in their premiership-winning side his standout performance for 2023.
The North Beach junior stands at 196cm tall and can play as a key defender or work across the field as a ruckman, with Zakostelsky showing his pedigree as a multi-positional player for the Tigers this year.
Zakostelsky was named best afield in Claremont's Colts Grand Final thanks to his 22-disposal and 18-hitout performance against Perth, linking up with top-rated WA prospect Dan Curtin to clinch the flag.
That outing would cap off a strong second half to 2023 for Zakostelsky, who started his Colts campaign as a ruckman before moving into a split role.
At October's AFL Draft Combine, the teenager recorded top 10 finishes in four of the five tests and took out the top score for the standing vertical jump with an 80cm leap.
His breakout year with Claremont also netted Zakostelsky a pair of National Championship appearances for WA, where he recorded 15 disposals (11 contested), seven marks and four tackles for the carnival.
His ability to play as an intercept defender - thanks to his leap and pace - as well as emerging as a pinch-hit ruck option has seen Zakostelsky gain more traction as the year has progressed.
He now firms as a likely draft selection at November's intake, potentially earning a call as early as the opening picks in the second round.
Geelong's second selection of Pick 25 could be used on the versatile tall, while Carlton (Pick 28), Brisbane (Picks 30+39) and Collingwood (Pick 33) might have some interest. From his home state, Fremantle could also be a potential suitor with their opening pick at 34th overall.
Position: Defender-Ruck
Height: 196cm
Weight: 89kg
State: Western Australia
Club: North Beach
Athleticism
Intercepting
Versatility
Vertical
25-40
Geelong (Pick 25)
Brisbane (Picks 30+39)
Collingwood (Pick 33)
Fremantle (Pick 34)
"Was selected in the final two games for Western Australia at the National Championships with his intercept marking a feature. Was a consistent performer for Claremont at Colts level averaging 15.2 disposals in 13 matches." - Kevin Sheehan