Josh Rachele

Height: 180cm

Weight: 78kg

Position: Small forward/midfielder

DOB: 11/04/2003

From: Murray Bushrangers / Victoria

Widely described as one of the most exciting and talented players in the draft, Rachele was named in the NAB League Team of the Year in 2021.

The small forward booted 11 goals in four games for the Murray Bushrangers and averaged 18.5 disposals, 6.3 marks and 3.8 tackles.

The Shepparton local also performed well in the midfield for Vic Country mid-year, according to AFL draft expert Callum Twomey.

“Everybody wants a gamechanger and Rachele has that capacity,” Twomey said.

“The forward pocket rocket is damaging inside-50 and shapes as a player who will be pushing for selection in his debut season given he can hit the scoreboard in a number of ways.

“He’s good overhead for a smaller type and also can have stints around the ball in the midfield, which he showed against Vic Metro with 20 disposals in the Championships game.”

Rachele’s talents and ability transcend football, with the 18-year-old having been offered a Melbourne City scholarship after playing for years with their youth team.

He was also initially selected in Australia’s U17 squad, but ultimately chose AFL over soccer.