Geelong has gambled on three project players in its late selections in the AFL national draft.
The Cats also added a player with AFL experience in midfielder Sam Menegola, previously on lists at Fremantle and Hawthorn.
Geelong selected Ryan Gardner (pick 59), Sam Menegola (pick 66), Wylie Buzza (pick 69) and Matthew Hayball (pick 70).
“We feel pleased with what we accomplished in the draft,” Geelong’s national recruiting and list manager Stephen Wells said.
“Sam is a strong bodied midfielder and can also go forward. He really dominated in the WAFL with Subiaco this past season.
“He is 23 and is strong bodied and we think will have the opportunity to earn a spot in the team next year.
“Ryan has played senior football this year and he played well in the under 18 championships and at the MCG on grand final day.
“Like all young players he has development in him and we see him as a defender.
“Wylie has only played football for the past three years mainly as a forward but also little in the ruck. He did a good job in the national championships and in the TAC cup.
“Matthew spent most of the season in the SANFL under 18s and earned a spot in the reserves by the end of the season.
“His body is wiry and will take time to develop and he is a versatile player that can slot into a number of positions.
“We have a good mix of players and will have further opportunities in the rookie draft.”
