Likely No.2 draft pick Noah Anderson is aiming for a Round One debut next year as he prepares for his first AFL pre-season.
Gold Coast is set to take Matt Rowell at No.1 and then choose Anderson with the following choice, with the close friends and Oakleigh Chargers pair likely to make an immediate impact in 2020.
Anderson and likely No.1 pick Rowell (right) have been longtime friends.
Anderson had a brilliant under-18 campaign, winning All Australian honours for his championships with Vic Metro, playing a key role in the Oakleigh Chargers' NAB League premiership and also winning a flag at school level for Carey Grammar in Victoria.
He is ready for his first summer as an AFL player, and is backing himself to be ready to play in the opening fixture next year.
"I couldn't tell you exactly [whether I'll be ready but] I'm pretty confident [in myself]. With the right system around me and everything, I think I'd be able to give it a pretty good shot," Anderson told AFL.com.au.
Recruiters are sure Anderson is ready to go.
Anderson in full flight for Vic Metro at the NAB AFL U18 Championships. Picture: AFL Photos
After a bottom-aged season where he established his credentials, the 18-year-old couldn't have done any more this year.
He averaged 28 disposals and two goals for the Chargers, and 24 touches for Vic Metro. Nearly half of his disposals this season were won in contested situations, and he spent large stints of the year as a resting forward.
"I've been happy with how I've been able to stay consistent throughout the year. I started well and never really dropped off and that was a goal at the start of the year to stay really consistent and I thought I did that," he said.
Anderson and Rowell are set to bolster a young and developing midfield unit for the Suns, alongside Touk Miller, Brayden Fiorini, David Swallow and new recruits Hugh Greenwood and Brandon Ellis.
Anderson speaks to reporters at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. Picture: AFL Photos
Anderson, who likes to model his game on childhood hero Brett Deledio as a powerful midfielder who can push forward, says he would be happy to head to the Suns.
"Obviously nothing's guaranteed but if I was to go up to Gold Coast, like any other team, I'd love that opportunity to play football," he said.
"I've heard nothing but good things from people inside Gold Coast and if that was the case then I'd be so excited to get up there and start playing some footy."
