The Western Bulldogs have selected key defender Jedd Busslinger with their first selection in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft.
Taken with pick 13 overall, Busslinger is a proactive back from East Perth with strong hands and impressive aerial abilities.
The 18-year-old West Australian hasn’t played since mid-year after undergoing shoulder surgery, but has proven he can be a regular ball-getter, averaging 24 disposals at Colts level.
Providing the perfect combination of intercept making and ball use particularly by foot, Busslinger also earned U18s All-Australian selection - despite playing just two U18 Championships games.
Here’s how AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan described him:
A tall defender whose real weapons are his intercept marking and ability to take the game on. Was among Western Australia’s best players in matches against Victoria Metro and the Allies at the 2022 NAB AFL National Championships U18 Boys, averaging 22 disposals (75% efficiency), seven marks and five rebound 50s. His campaign was curtailed by a shoulder injury which required surgery, but he was still rewarded with All-Australian selection, such was his dominance across the two matches.
The remaining rounds of the 2022 NAB AFL Draft will be held tomorrow night, Tuesday 29 November.
Jedd Busslinger – player profile
Height: 196cm
Weight: 82kg
DOB: 11/03/2004
State: Western Australia
State league club: East Perth
Community club: Coolbinia
Position: Key defender
