STRENGTHS:

+ Accumulation
+ Intercept marking
+ Rebounding
+ Speed

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Kick consistency
- Strength

Perth defender Dale Sutherland earned a reputation this year for his daring rebound play and ability to rack up possessions. He found a groove in the post-championships period, averaging 26.3 disposals in his last six WAFL Colts outings - including a high of 35. His output was much steadier for Western Australia, but he proved versatile enough to also shut down opposition forwards.

Sutherland's style is unrelenting, providing quick transitional ball movement. He leans on his speed and foot skills to kickstart counterattacks, darting through traffic and taking ground at will. He showcased his speed at WA's state draft combine, turning in the top agility test time of 7.833 seconds, while also stopping the clock at a rapid 2.97 seconds in the 20m sprint.

Standing at 183cm, Sutherland has good spring to compete overhead, lending to the intercept quality which feeds his transitional play. He is capable of distributing the ball dangerously and is a kick-first type of operator, but can refine some of his execution and decision making. Building size is another area he can focus on as a defender, to further enhance his one-on-one craft.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie