STRENGTHS: Composure, rebounding, disposal efficiency
IMPROVEMENTS: Contested ball-winning, consistency

SUMMARY: Joe Ayton-Delaney proved his worth at all levels this year, playing a role in the star-studded Oakleigh Chargers side while also pitching in across three of Vic Metro’s four National Championship games. The diminutive half-back stands out with his ability to find space and rebound from defence, using the ball well with a cool head. His size means he may be limited to that kind of role, but he performs well in it. He would be hoping to expand on his contested game to gain more midfield minutes in the future, while also finding the consistency to hit disposal marks above 20 more often. That will come with a pre-season and larger tank, but Ayton-Delaney’s other athletic traits like agility and speed are more natural to him – with an above average agility test score of 8.37 and 20m sprint time just above three seconds. If he indeed builds on his size and tank, Ayton-Delaney’s mix of athleticism and smarts could see him become an effective midfielder in the future.