Shaun McKernan - 2008 AFL Draftee Profile

Shaun McKernan is the brother of former North Melbourne and Carlton player Corey McKernan. Shaun is a similar player to his brother playing the majority of his junior footy in the ruck with periods up forward.

Height: 196cm
Weight: 95kg
Position: Ruckman/Forward
Club: Calder Cannons

Who we think he may turn out like: Corey McKernan
Who we hope he doesn’t turn out like: Corey McKernan circa 2003/2004
Where he may end up: Richmond

 
Watching Shaun McKernan play he looks an exact replica of his brother with longish locks and giant snoz. Whilst he is not what you would consider genuine size for ruckman he makes up for that with his great athleticism and desire to give a contest. He has great tap work in the ruck and more often than not got his hands on the ball first for Calder. He is very strong which makes him hard to beat in one on one bodywork.

Not only is McKernan a very promising ruckman he also like his brother has the ability to play as a key forward and kick a bag of goals. This is very important as we mentioned earlier he isn’t a huge size for a ruckman so will no doubt spend periods of time playing as a key forward. He is a strong mark and has good skills which have seen him kick goals at Under 18 level.

The one negative of Mckernan’s game is that he is not very quick and with the AFL game getting faster this will be something that concerns recruiters. He gets around the ground alright but does not have a quick burst of speed that can be needed at the top level.

Expect McKernan to be a mid to late first round selection.

Do you think Shaun can emulate the career of his brother? Where do you think he will end up? Leave us with your thoughts.