Talented Sandringham Dragons youngster Taj Hotton was simply dominant in the Coates Talent League last weekend.
Hotton was everywhere in his side’s 52-point win over the Oakleigh Chargers in Round 2, racking up 32 disposals and booting four goals to go along with 10 marks, five tackles and five inside 50s.
The son of former Collingwood and Carlton player Trent and brother of St Kilda’s Olli was already considered well and truly in the draft mix and a performance like this only solidifies his standing as a serious prospect in 2024.
James Pitcher, from Bravo Talent Management, was blown away by what Hotton produced for the Dragons and is keen to see what he delivers as the season progresses.
“To put it simply, he was just where the ball was. It just kept coming to him,” Pitcher said of Hotton’s game on SEN’s Future Stars.
“He was really strong one on one, he competed well, used the footy well and hit the scoreboard.
“So he really put himself out there on Saturday. Whatever Hotton touched turned to gold.
“He played in a high half-forward role and was really clean. For his size, there were a couple of situations one on one in a marking contest and took it cleanly. He just showed really good class with ball in hand.
“I know he’s been spoken about a little bit in the past, but keep an eye on this kid.”
One of Hotton’s Sandy teammates also impressed Pitcher, who classed this particular player as a hidden gem.
Dangerous forward Bailey McKenzie kicked 2.3 from 10 disposals and five marks in a performance that was not lost on the talent manager.
“There was another guy who really took my eye - Bailey McKenzie,” Pitcher added.
“He’s listed at 191cm, he looks a bit taller out on the ground. He’s got really good agility for a big man, really flies for his marks and competes hard.
“That’s what you like to see in a forward, if the ball’s not won in the air that they’re not out of the contest.
“He’s a Brighton Grammar boy who has really put himself on the radar and is one to follow.”
Despite not playing across half-back, McKenzie moves in a similar fashion to Sydney’s Nick Blakey who played a lot in the forward line during his Under-18 days.
“If I was to say he plays like anyone, there might be a bit of Nick Blakey about him. He moves like him,” Pitcher said.
Hotton, McKenzie and the Dragons are next in action against Eastern Ranges at RSEA Park on Saturday from 11am AEDT.