West Coast will enter Friday’s 2017 NAB AFL Draft with eight picks up its sleeve courtesy of some crafty work during October’s Trade Period. The Eagles currently own picks 13, 21, 26, 32, 37, 69, 87 and 105.
Let’s take a look at how the club and its rivals have used the aforementioned selections in previous drafts to snap up some of the game’s most revered stars and serviceable athletes.
Pick No.105 and 87
Although the West Coast Eagles have never had picks 105 and 87 at their disposal, other clubs have used the late round selections to secure some quality footballers.
In 1988, Footscray used its 150th selection in the draft to secure the services of young Daylesford product Chris Grant, who turned out to be one of the best late pick-ups in draft. Grant, who debuted in 1990, carved out an enviable career at Footscray and the Western Bulldogs: 341 games, 554 goals, three all-Australian goings and two Charles Sutton medals. He was also inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2012, five years after his retirement from the game.
Essendon snared Damien Hardwick with its 87th pick in the 1992 draft. Hardwick, who coached Richmond to premiership glory this year, played 153 games and won one premiership (2000) with the Bombers before making his way to Port Adelaide in season 2002, where he helped the Power claim their maiden flag in 2004.
Hardwick also Essendon's W.S Crichton Medal in 1998 and claimed all-Australian honours in 2000.
