2021 AFL Draft: Where they came from and where they went?

The 2021 NAB AFL Draft took place over three separate nights from the 24-26th of November, and for many young footballers, the draft marked a significant transition in their journey from community football to the elite game.

A total of 83 players were selected by AFL clubs as part of the 2021 NAB AFL National, Rookie and Pre-Season Drafts representing community football clubs across the country.

>>> See the full list of draftees and their junior clubs

45 players were selected from Victoria—more than double any other state—which is a testament to the effort of our leagues and clubs in providing a pathway from junior football to the elite game. The draft serves as a great reward for all the hard work that these players have put in throughout their junior careers, but it also allows us to recognise and celebrate the community clubs that have paved the way for our young stars.

Seven out of the top ten picks in the national draft came from Victorian community clubs, and VAFA powerhouse, Beaumaris, was one of the most successful clubs with three draftees (Mitchito Owens – STK pick 33, Marcus Windhager – STK pick 47, and Luke Cleary – WBD pick 61).

See the community clubs where the draftees came from and the AFL club they ended up at in the tables below.

Round 1

Essendon draftee, Ben Hobbs was a star for the Horsham Demons. Photo The Weekly Advertiser

Round 2

Former Sunbury Lions player, Josh Goater will stay in the blue and white at North Melbourne. Photo Star Weekly

Round 3

Oak Park's Zac Taylor landed at Adelaide with pick 44

Round 4 and onwards

Luke Cleary was one of three Beaumaris players drafted.

AFL Victoria would like to congratulate all the draftees in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft and wish them luck for their future careers.