ST KILDA was able to have a relatively quiet AFL Women’s Draft, having committed to a father-daughter prospect pre-draft and heading in with one other selection, a top 10 pick. With the latter, the Saints opted for Western Jets skipper Kiera Whiley with Pick 10, before selecting Geelong VFLW midfielder Charlotte Simpson, an over-age onballer who shared the Lambert-Pearce Medal this season in the state league competition.
Kiera Whiley (Western Jets / Vic Metro)
07/04/2005 | 173cm | Midfielder / Defender
Whiley is one of the more well-rounded players, able to slot into midfield, on a wing or off a flank at either end, though has spent more time in defence after her number one inside role. With clean hands and a natural clearance-inning ability, Whiley knows how to position herself well at the stoppages, and at 173cm is taller than the average midfielder. Though not explosive, she glides around the stoppages, often ducking out the back and then going on the offensive from there. Her defensive side is her strength though, being a ferocious tackler around the ground.
Charlotte Simpson (Geelong VFLW / Victoria)
02/03/2004 | 168cm | Midfielder
After missing out on being drafted in her top-age year last year, Simpson set about getting back to work. That she did, becoming a star midfielder in the hoops throughout the Geelong VFLW season, and shared in a three-way tie for the Lambert-Pearce Medal. Eligible as a father-daughter to both Geelong and St Kilda, the Saints opted to pounce, and selected her with a third round pick to add to their inside stocks. She is a readymade player who could slot in from Round 1 if required, with her defensive side also outstanding, but her clearance ability and strength also highlights of her game.
SUMMARY
St Kilda only made the minimum two selections in this year’s draft, but picked up a couple of players who can make an impact immediately. Both are strong physically and as leaders, while being able to influence at the stoppages. As defensively-minded players, it will add an extra layer to the Saints’ tackling game going forward.
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