Crameri, Ruggles on tenterhooks over rookie selection

AFL DRAFT 2017

GEELONG looms as Stewart Crameri’s best chance to resurrect his stalled career next season.

The Cats are weighing up whether to offer Crameri, 29, or defender Tom Ruggles a lifeline among many young hopefuls in today’s rookie draft.

If selected, Crameri would play on a minimum wage plus match payments but, like all rookies, would be available to play for Geelong from Round 1.

The Cats want to bolster their scoring power but have made no guarantees to the former Bulldog and Bomber.

Geelong has two selections in today’s rookie draft, one of which the Cats have committed to relisting youngster Matthew Hayball, who they delisted at the end of the season despite having a contract for next year.

“We’ll go away and review the draft, review our list needs and have a good discussion with our list management group — which includes the senior coach — and work it out on Monday, probably,” Geelong list manager Stephen Wells said.

The Geelong Falcons are expected to have about three players picked up, headlined by a group including lively midfielder-forward David Handley, smooth wingman Ethan Floyd, tall contested midfielder Cassidy Parish and 180cm creative defender Cooper Stephens.

Falcons coach Danny O’Keefe said of Handley: “(He) deserves a place on list.

“He is a purist footballer, not the athletic type. But those attributes can be worked on, especially if it becomes a fulltime career for someone like ‘Chop’. He has so much still to give and I think he would be a steal early in the rookie draft.”

On Parish: “His year speaks for itself. Topped the stats in so many areas.

“Every player has their knocks and Cassidy’s is his disposal efficiency by foot.

“Although it did get better as the year rolled on, his strength is far superior than most drafted on Friday night. His stoppage craft is phenomenal. I honestly believe he can be an AFL player.”

On Floyd: “In my opinion, he kicks the ball better than majority of the drafted players on Friday night and is one of the best athletes in the country. Another steal.”

On Stephens: “Cooper has enough attributes to be picked up. His endurance and speed from the back half is super and his kicking is polished.”