The Western Bulldogs three newest additions have Senior Coach Brendan McCartney’s stamp of approval as talented footballers, hard workers and of quality character.
Marcus Bontempelli (pick four), Matt Fuller (pick 42) and Mitch Honeychurch (pick 60) officially became Bulldogs players at last night’s draft and McCartney sees enormous potential in each of them.
“With some good fortune and good planning they got through,” McCartney said.
“It’s just systematic, we have a list of draft order at each pick and pretty much you cross names off.
“You think some clubs may be going to take a player you really like and then they pick someone else and… you breathe a sigh of relief and they were there.”
A player with enormous upside is 17-year-old Bontempelli, who as a 193cm utility could easily become one of the best pickups in this year’s draft.
“Marcus is a really exciting, very much a development player who we think will develop into a midfielder who can play in a variety of positions,” he said.
“He will be an exciting player to watch, he will do things that you don’t’ expect and he will add to our team.”
A threatening left boot rebounding from defence makes Fuller a solid mature aged acquisition at pick 42 and adds a ready-made defender into the mix come team selection in 2014.
“He is an elite kick, a powerful kick. He will be able to play on good forwards and use the ball well for us across half back,” he said.
The Bulldogs main bolter in last night’s draft was the slight-framed Honeychurch but what he lacks in stature, he more than makes up for in determination and courage.
“Mitch Honeychurch had a fantastic carnival for Vic Metro and we are thrilled to bits that he got through to pick 60, we are quite surprised,” he said.
“We think we have drafted a hard working little tough nut that will go into battle every week and play for his team.”
Alongside the addition of defender Brett Goodes who was elevated to the primary list, the strong mix of attributes and talents will no doubt bolster the Bulldogs lineup in seasons to come.
