A successful morning at the AFL National Draft has seen five recruits join West Coast ranks for season 2009.
The club used its first pick to snare Nicholas Naitanui at selection two, followed by Luke Shuey (18), Tom Swift (20), Ashley Smith (36) and Jordan Jones (52).
One of the most talked about prospects leading into the draft, Naitanui joins West Coast from Swan Districts. Notable for his phenomenal athleticism, which sets him apart from other players his size, Naitanui's tackling and work ethic are also strong features of his game. Naitanui represented Western Australia in the under-18 championships where his stand-out performance earned him a second consecutive all-Australian guernsey.
Shuey comes west from the Oakleigh Chargers where he has excelled as an inside midfielder who can also play forward. Shuey's speed and ability to win the ball saw him represent Vic Metro in this year's under-18 championships.
Another midfielder, Swift suffered an injury-interrupted season this year but impressed at the draft camp with his outstanding athletic ability. A local selection from Claremont, Swift is a high possession winning midfielder with outstanding endurance.
Smith, recruited from the Dandenong Stingrays, played alongside Shuey in the Vic Metro team where he impressed with his versatility as a midfielder who can also go forward. Smith tested the fastest over 20 metres at the draft camp and possesses a penetrating kick.
The club's final pick, Jones is a tall defender who is strong overhead and possesses a good leap. Representing Vic Country at this year's carnival, Jones is agile for his size, attacks the contest and can also be used through the midfield.