STRENGTHS:

+ Aerial ability
+ Big game player
+ Skills
+ Composure
+ Size
+ Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Durability
- Ground balls

Among a suite of elite attributes, Curtin’s versatility stands out most. Modelling his game on Matthew Pavlich, Curtin possesses some similar traits to the former Fremantle captain, particularly with his ability to move for a key-position size. Across his career, he has been used in basically every position and has shown competence in each. This type of adaptability makes him such a valuable commodity and sees him frequently utilised as a swingman, being placed where the team needs him most.

While versatility may be his trademark, Curtin has looked most comfortable behind the ball. His aerial prowess is his best trait as a defender. A good athlete, Curtin attacks the ball well in the air and is a strong interceptor, often backing himself to take the grab rather than opting for the safety-first option to spoil. He also has good closing speed, which sees him able to impact the contest even if slightly out of position.

Curtin’s lateral movement for a player of his size is exceptional. It is customary to see him nonchalantly sidestep an opponent and swing onto his trusty left foot, with his sideways movement so smooth and effortless. When using the ball, he generally makes good decisions and has a crisp, penetrating kick that sees him find his target more often than not.

For a player who has primarily played key-position, Curtin’s stoppage craft is impressive. Despite his towering 195cm frame, Curtin’s midfield play does not generally involve him bulldozing his smaller opponents. Rather, he moves like a natural on-baller and is often used as a receiver who can gather the ball on the run and send it forward by foot. His game against Vic Metro, where he gathered 28 disposals and 10 clearances provided an insight into his potential future as a big-bodied midfielder. In fact, it's where he sees himself fitting in at AFL level.

An underrated characteristic of Curtin’s junior career is his ability to perform in big games. His record in State games is very strong, dating back to when he played as an under-ager at Under 17 level and took 10 marks on debut in an awesome intercepting display. His performances in a spluttering West Australian outfit in this year’s Under 18 National Championships were outstanding and demonstrated signs of good leadership.

These were evident when he lifted late to almost force a victory against Vic Country and when he took it upon himself to matchup on Allies gun Jed Walter. He also claimed best afield honours in the Under 17 Futures exhibition game in his bottom age year and performed solidly in a pair of WAFL league finals for Claremont, further pointing to his big-game exploits.

While he is undeniably an outstanding prospect, there are aspects of Curtin’s game he can tidy up. His ground level play and ball security under fierce tackling pressure are two small areas he can look improve. He would also love to get his body right when he enters the AFL system. Having missed the majority of his bottom-age year, Curtin had a good run with injury in 2023, although did not test for the National Combine after a minor soft-tissue complaint.