Josh Smillie is making headlines as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in the 2024 AFL Draft. Born on May 17, 2006, this 194 cm tall midfielder has been turning heads with his impressive skills on the football field. Whether it’s his ability to dominate contested possessions or his strong footy IQ, Smillie has proven that he is more than just a player to watch — he is a future star. Throughout his journey, from his early days with his junior club to his recent performances with the Eastern Ranges and Vic Metro, Smillie’s name has become synonymous with potential and promise.
As we approach the 2024 AFL Draft, Smillie is being closely followed by major clubs looking to bolster their midfield. Teams like Richmond, Hawthorn, and St Kilda are all reportedly interested in adding the young talent to their rosters. Smillie’s rise through the ranks has been remarkable, and his performances in national championships and the Coates Talent League have only strengthened his case for being one of the top picks. In this article, we’ll dive into Josh Smillie’s background, his journey through junior football, his time at school, and what to expect from him in the AFL in the years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Smillie is a tall, skillful midfielder born on May 17, 2006, standing at 194 cm.
- He has earned accolades such as MVP for Vic Metro’s Under 16 team and has been named All Australian.
- Smillie is considered a top prospect for the 2024 AFL Draft, with teams like Richmond, St Kilda, and Hawthorn showing interest.
- His performances in the Coates Talent League and national championships have showcased his ability to impact the game with both contested possessions and scoring.
- Josh played for the Eastern Ranges and has trained with AFL clubs like Hawthorn as part of his development.
Josh Smillie – The Future of AFL Midfield
Josh Smillie is a name quickly becoming synonymous with the future of Australian rules football. His playing style combines athleticism with a keen understanding of the game, making him one of the most promising young talents in the 2024 AFL Draft. Standing tall at 194 cm, Smillie has the ideal build for a midfielder and has impressed scouts with his ability to impact both ends of the ground. His performances with the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League, where he averaged over 26 disposals per game, demonstrate his potential to dominate in the AFL.
In addition to his performances in the talent league, Smillie’s time with the Vic Metro team has further cemented his reputation. As a player who can seamlessly transition between defense and midfield, Smillie’s versatility is one of his most valuable traits. His ability to read the game and make smart decisions under pressure has drawn comparisons to AFL stars like Patrick Cripps and Marcus Bontempelli, further raising expectations for his future career.
Josh Smillie – Junior Football and Early Career
Before making a name for himself in the AFL draft conversation, Josh Smillie had to work his way up through the ranks of junior football. He began his journey at the Eastern Ranges, where he played a crucial role in the development of his skills. As a junior, Smillie quickly became known for his strong ball-winning abilities, impressive footwork, and leadership on the field. His performances at the junior level laid the foundation for his current rise to stardom.
Smillie’s early years in football showed that he wasn’t just another tall, physical player, but one with an exceptional understanding of the game. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and by the time he was selected to represent Vic Metro, it was clear that he was ready for the next level. His time with the Eastern Ranges was an important stepping stone, and it provided him with the platform to showcase his abilities at a national level.
Josh Smillie and His School Life
Josh Smillie’s academic journey has been equally as impressive as his athletic one. He attended Whitefriars College, where he played a pivotal role in leading the school to its first Herald Sun Shield title in 18 years. This victory not only highlighted his leadership skills but also showed his ability to handle pressure in big moments. It was during his time at Whitefriars that Smillie’s football talent was nurtured and honed, helping him prepare for the next stage of his career.
School sports were not just an extracurricular activity for Smillie; they were a critical part of his development. His commitment to both his education and his football career has set him up for a successful future, regardless of where his career takes him after the 2024 AFL Draft.
Josh Smillie and AFL Club Interest
As Josh Smillie’s stock rises, several AFL clubs have begun to take notice. Richmond, Hawthorn, and St Kilda are among the clubs reportedly showing interest in Smillie, with the potential to draft him high in the upcoming 2024 AFL Draft. Each of these clubs sees Smillie as a player who can help elevate their midfield with his size, skill, and versatility.
For clubs like Richmond and St Kilda, who are looking to strengthen their midfield depth, Smillie presents an exciting opportunity. His combination of athleticism and footy IQ makes him an ideal candidate for these teams, who could use his talents to build a more competitive roster. While Smillie’s future club remains uncertain, one thing is clear: he has a promising career ahead of him in the AFL.
| Key Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Josh Smillie |
| Born | May 17, 2006 |
| Height | 194 cm |
| Junior Club | Eastern Ranges |
| Current Club | Eastern Ranges |
| Notable Achievements | MVP Vic Metro U16, All Australian |
| AFL Draft Status | Projected top pick for 2024 AFL Draft |
| Potential AFL Clubs | Richmond, Hawthorn, St Kilda |
Josh Smillie – Looking Ahead to the AFL
As Josh Smillie prepares for the 2024 AFL Draft, the future looks bright for this talented midfielder. Whether he ends up with Richmond, St Kilda, or another club, his ability to impact the game in various ways is something that AFL scouts are excited about. Smillie’s rise to prominence has been swift, but it is only the beginning of what promises to be a long and successful career in Australian rules football.
Whether he’s playing for the Eastern Ranges, representing Vic Metro, or training with AFL clubs like Hawthorn, Smillie’s development has been impressive. He is a player to watch closely in the coming months, and his performance at the AFL Draft will undoubtedly have fans buzzing with excitement for what’s to come.
FAQ
Who is Josh Smillie?
Josh Smillie is a talented Australian rules footballer born on May 17, 2006, who plays as a midfielder. He is a top prospect for the 2024 AFL Draft and is known for his strong ball-winning ability and versatility on the field.
What is Josh Smillie’s height?
Josh Smillie stands at 194 cm, which gives him a strong presence both in the midfield and in contested situations.
Where did Josh Smillie play junior football?
Josh Smillie began his football journey with the Eastern Ranges, where he developed his skills and made a name for himself as a rising star.
Which clubs are interested in Josh Smillie?
As of now, clubs such as Richmond, St Kilda, and Hawthorn are reportedly interested in drafting Josh Smillie in the 2024 AFL Draft.
What are Josh Smillie’s key achievements?
Some of Josh Smillie’s notable achievements include being named the MVP of Vic Metro’s Under 16 team and earning All Australian honors. He has also played a key role in his school’s first Herald Sun Shield victory in 18 years.
What are Josh Smillie’s strengths as a player?
Josh Smillie’s strengths include his ability to win contested possessions, his strong footy IQ, and his versatility to play both in the midfield and defense. His athleticism and size make him a formidable player on the field.