ONE OF Tasmania’s most highly credentialed top-agers this year is Launceston product Lucas Wootton. The utility was an Under 16 All-Australian, turned out in the National Futures match last year, and has spent part of the preseason training with the Allies – all alongside Clarence tall Jasper Hay.

In 2025, Wootton is expected to complete his shift into the Devils’ midfield having previously been exposed to a variety of roles. He starred with three top-10 finishes at Tasmania’s recent preseason testing event, where we sat down for a chat heading into the new campaign.

>> Preseason Q&A: Jasper Hay (Clarence)

PRESEASON Q&A

Q: Lucas, can you start with your earliest memory of football?

LW: I’d say winning an Under 12s premiership at Launceston Football Club with all my schoolmates. It was pretty special and I was the captain of that team, so that’s probably the earliest one.

Q: Who are some of the mentors you’ve had along the journey?

LW: Definitely my father, just talking to him whenever I can about footy or whatever I need. Then the likes of Ryley Sanders and Colby McKercher, they’ve been good as well.

Q: How have you handled the thought of relocating to get drafted like those boys, before Tasmania joins the AFL?

LW: We travel pretty much every second week, every week already with the Coates League which is fun, travelling and staying with the team. I think it’s something you’ve got to be ready for and it’s something I’m ready for.

Q: What about the buzz of Tasmania finally having its own team?

LW: It’s exciting for the state and something that we’ve always wanted. The VFL coming in next year is exciting and then I think the AFL in 2028 is pretty cool for the state. And hopefully we can get that stadium up too.

Q: How has preseason been for you?

LW: Preseason’s been long. Long sessions, but it’s been good. I’m ready for the season now.

Q: What was it like coming through the Tassie program to train with the Allies this preseason?

LW: The Allies program was awesome. It was so good getting together with people from all the states and territories before we play in the champs.

>> NATIONAL CHAMPS: Why the 2025 Allies can repeat history

Q: How would you describe yourself as a player?

LW: Pretty quick, agile, and a good kick. I pride myself on that… I like to get out of stoppages and use my speed a bit.

Q: What kind of role do you see yourself playing this year?

LW: With the Devil’s I reckon inside mid, and then if I make the Allies hopefully a bit of mid, a bit of half-back.

Q: Are there any things you’re looking to work on?

LW: My contested stuff and defensive tackling, trying to get more turnovers with tackling. Trying to get more holding-the-balls in there and trying to be a team player.

Q: Which AFL club do you support?

LW: Collingwood Football Club… all the family goes for them, so it sort of had to go for them.

Q: Is there a player you try to mould your game on?

LW: I’d say Nick Daicos. I like to watch him, he’s a pretty good player.

Q: What kind of goals have you set for the year?

LW: To make the Allies team, play all the games there, and then just playing consistently every week.

Q: Is there a teammate you think we should look out for to have a big year?

LW: Probably Rylee McHenry. He’s tough inside and I reckon he should have a good year.