STRENGTHS:

+ Aerial ability
+ Athleticism
+ Ball use
+ Running power
+ Upside
+ Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Contested marking
- Strength

You could turn up to a Gippsland Power match and play paper-scissors-rock to predict where Ladbrook would line up; key back, ruck/forward, or even on the wing. His versatility is a major strength and has been extensively utilised over the years. While he seems most comfortable down back, that may still be the case at AFL level.

There's a unique well-roundedness to Ladbrook's game. Inevitably, he's an aerial threat at over 200cm. He fares best as an interceptor, where he roams relatively loosely and reads the play beautifully, before using his speed to arrive at the contest and cut the ball off. His aerial range is remarkable, boasting a strong leap and terrific reach to either extend into overhead marks or chime in with a spoil.

Ladbrook blends his football nous with athleticism, particularly as a defender. He isn't afraid to use his momentum on the intercept to carry the ball forward, and frequently joins the attack. His mobility and ball use are central to that free-flowing style, as he can step around or burst past opponents before hitting up targets with great poise. Few 201cm players can deliver the ball so efficiently by foot, no less on the run.

Being able to cover so much ground is useful as an interceptor, but also as a potential wingman or key forward. Particularly while playing for Vic Country, Ladbrook was able to impact late in games with his work rate up the field, gaining separation from his opponent and acting as a connection piece between the arcs. His running power and impact in open play gives the look of a small in a tall's body.

For all his upside, Ladbrook still has plenty of improvement left if he is to become a genuine key position player. He possesses a lean frame and can certainly look to add size over the years, but may not ever become an overly physical type. Still, his one-on-one craft, bodywork and contested acumen can improve to make him a more well-rounded tall. As much was evident in his matchup against North Melbourne listed forward Matt Whitlock, which would have been a great learning experience.