PROFILE

• Intercepting
• Reading the play
• Vertical leap
• Rebounding

KEY IMPROVEMENT:

• Kicking consistency

Schmidli was an ultra-reliable figure in defence for Eastern this season, often proving the last line and one which had plenty of work to do. The 18-year-old has a handy vertical leap and used that when impacting aerially, able to either spoil the ball or take a relieving mark. She got in such positions through shrewd reading of the play and with those two traits combined, made for a very solid intercept outlet. With ball in hand, Schmidli also sought to drive her side out of defence. Of her average 10.1 disposals in the NAB League, 8.3 came via foot which is indicative of her usual style. She often got good penetration on those clearing kicks and was even entrusted with some of the kick-in duties at representative level with Vic Metro, showing her kicking can be a strength in the rebounding sense. In terms of improvements, the kicking consistency tag is a bit of a broad term which aims to suggest Schmidli is a capable kicker but can sharpen up her decision making and execution across the four quarters. With the pressure gauge high during this year's Under 19 National Championships, many players were rushed in possession and the defence is the third you want to ensure you remain in possession. Overall, Schmidli clearly has some interest at the next level given she earned a draft combine invite this year, and it came off the back of some promising form. Her best attributes suit the defensive post well, offering sound intercept play and the ability to set up her side in transition with booming kicks out of the defensive arc.

QUOTES

2021:

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STATS