Richmond have selected Sam Grlj with pick No. 8 in the Telstra AFL Draft.
Richmond has selected exciting Oakleigh Chargers running-machine Sam Grlj with its second selection, No. 8 overall at tonight’s Telstra AFL Draft.
The speedster averaged 20.3 disposals, five tackles and 3.9 clearances at Coates Talent League level this year and 17 touches for Victoria Metro.
Grlj also impressed when playing for Richmond’s VFL team in Round 19 and 20, instantly standing out as a top-level talent.
Richmond National Recruiting Manager, Rhy Gieschen said the Club had tracked Grlj closely across the past three years.
“Sam’s attributes are really clear when you watch him play and he always plays to his strengths which is his terrific mix of speed, agility and endurance,” he said.
“Our fans will love his ability to use these attributes to take the game forward and break lines.
“His ability to link up and challenge the opposition with his run and dash is the standout feature in his game, which is also underpinned by the fact that he is a serious competitor who loves to win.
“Sam showed his ability to play really strong senior football in our VFL side this year acquitting himself extremely well.
“He also showcased his athletic profile at the recent Draft Combine where he was a 2.92 for the 20m sprint and a 5:55 two-kilometre time-trial which is an elite mix of speed and endurance.
“Sam has a real positive outlook on life and is always upbeat. He has great energy and is always looking at ways to improve his own game.
“We are delighted to welcome him and his family to the Swinburne Centre and cannot wait for the Tiger Army to make him one of their own.”
Grlj was voted as the captain of the Vic Metro U18 side this year, as well as captaining his school side at Camberwell Grammar such is his high-level character.
The 182cm Canterbury product was used mostly in the midfield and across half back this year.
