STRENGTHS:

+ Consistency
+ Defensive versatility
+ Rate of improvement
+ Rebounding

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Strength

Charlie Orchard has gone from not playing a game in his injury plagued bottom-age year, to becoming one of Dandenong Stingrays' most integral backmen as a top-ager in 2024. The rangy 190cm defender's rapid improvement also caught the eye of AFL recruiters, who nominated him to attend the Victorian state draft combine.

Often taking on a tall opponent, Orchard balances his defensive acts with strong offensive drive. He backs himself to carry the ball at speed and link up on the rebound, often finishing his work by distributing by foot. While he could be a little more composed in those instances, he can hurt the opposition when it comes off.

His versatility in that sense makes him a player with nice upside who could be effective at the next level, should he put all the pieces together. While capable of reading the play and impacting aerially, Orchard can continue to fill out his frame to make the adjustment to senior footy easier. It will also allow him to apply physicality and stick tackles.

DRAFT RANGE: Rookie