With the AFL Trade Period having just wrapped up, I wanted to reach out given a lot has transpired, particularly in the last few hours. 

We are pleased with the players we have been able to attract and the first-round draft picks we have acquired. We are now in a strong position as we continue to build towards our next premiership.

We have been able to secure one of the strongest draft hands in recent memory, which will give us the opportunity to bring in some elite young talent. We received three first-round draft picks in exchange for Christian Petracca, which gives us eight first-round selections across a four-year period from 2023 to 2026. We now enter next month’s draft with picks No. 7 and 8, which will allow us to add quality new talent, for the years ahead, particularly as the competition expands to include Tasmania.

We have welcomed four quality players in Brody Mihocek, Max Heath, Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Steele, adding a mix of seasoned AFL experience, leadership qualities and exciting youth to our list. We feel this will complement our existing playing group and have an immediate impact for us next season.

At the same time, we farewelled four players in Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Judd McVee and Charlie Spargo. Each has given so much to the red and blue over their respective journeys, and we wish them nothing but the best for the future. They are forever Melbourne people and will always be welcome at the club. 

In relation to Christian and Clayton, while it is difficult and somewhat sad to part ways with players of their calibre and contribution, ultimately, we always enter this time of year with the club’s future success at the heart of all decision-making. They have been champions of our club, and we wish them well. We are incredibly confident in where we have landed, bolstering our draft hand while fulfilling Christian’s and Clayton’s requests for a fresh start. 

With the Trade Period now complete, and next month’s AFL Draft fast approaching, I hope you can start to feel the excitement that is building within our AFL program. I know Alan, Steven and the entire football department are eager to implement all they have been working on in recent weeks, and to welcome back a group that is committed and determined to take this great club back to the top.  

Whilst the last week, in particular the last few hours, have been a whirlwind, I hope our commitment to keeping you informed throughout has resonated. 

Thanks for your ongoing support. 

Go Dees,
Paul