Ashley Smith – 2008 AFL Draftee Profile

Ashley Smith is one of the real smokeys of this years AFL Draft with many people believing he could go as high as the first round whilst others think he will only be a third round selection. He has been primarily used as a defender but he also has the ability to be used through the midfield.

Height: 186cm
Weight: 85kg
Position: Defender/Midfielder
Club: Dandenong Stingrays

Who we think he may turn out like: Jason Gram
Who we hope he doesn’t turn out like: Byron Schammer

 
Smith’s major strength is that he has a great kick on him. He can kick the ball very well over the 50 metres plus with accuracy, something that AFL teams love with players running off half back. He also possess a very good football IQ, knowing the right times to run off his man and the right spaces to run too.

As mentioned earlier he has the played the majority of his footy down back with spurts in the midfield. If he wants to take the next step and become an AFL midfielder his endurance and fitness is the one area that needs to be worked on.

Smith has very good pace and athleticism and this was highlighted by his very strong Draft Camp where he ranked 1st in the 20m Sprint, 6th in the 30m Repeat Sprint, and 10th in the Standing Vertical Jump.

Smith’s draft stocks have risen so much in recent weeks that it will be no surprise at all to see him drafted in the first round.

What are your thoughts on Ashley Smith? Where do you think he will be drafted? Leave us with your thoughts.