Box Hill Hawks' coach Chris Newman has admitted he is surprised that AFL clubs haven’t tapped into the VFL market to bolster their lists.
Newman has been blown away by the talent pool at the lower level, and says the success of mature-aged Hawthorn recruit David Mirra suggests that the quality is available if clubs are willing to take a chance.
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“I’ve been really surprised in the time that I’ve spent over last couple of years to see some of the quality that is running around that haven’t been given an opportunity,” Newman told SEN Afternoons.
“It’s great to see someone like a David Mirra, who got selected last year that’s been in the system for a long period of time, it sort of baffles me to understand why he wouldn’t have been given an opportunity earlier on.
“He’s just such a quality person and a quality player. You see guys like Michael Gibbons this year whose form has been outstanding, he’s one player we were really wary of playing Williamstown on the weekend.
“We’ve got a number players on our list that are really quality players and I’ve got no doubt if given an opportunity could make the most of it.
“It is full of talent it’s just using those limited opportunities to showcase your talents as much as possible to give yourself a chance to get drafted.”
Newman will look to lead Box Hill to their first premiership since 2013 when they face Casey Demons in the VFL Grand Final at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Listen to Chris Newman’s chat on SEN Afternoons with Andy Maher in the player