STRENGTHS:

+ Accumulation
+ Intercepting
+ Rebounding
+ Running power

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Kicking on the run

Sam Niklaus is another of the state combine invitees tracked from outside the Under 18 representative squads. The Warrnambool native starred at school football level, winning the Xavier College best and fairest award as captain. He also made six Coates Talent League appearances for the GWV Rebels before a foot injury cut his season short late in the piece.

The industrious runner is a keen accumulator who plies his trade off half-back and in midfield. Down back, his endless transitional running is a highlight, able to spark counterattacks and keep them flowing forward with repeat efforts. Niklaus' dare and ability to produce link-up play shines in those instances, as he accumulates possessions with ease.

Niklaus' running power and natural ball winning ability is also applicable to on-ball or wing roles. He holds his own relatively well in contested situations and has proven to be a gutsy interceptor. While capable of delivering sharp passes, Niklaus can continue to refine his kicking on the run, while adding polish to his attacking instincts to show a greater level of composure.

DRAFT RANGE: Late/Rookie