The Western Bulldogs have used their fourth selection to pick Lachlan Smith at Pick 47 in the 2023 AFL National Draft.
The Vic Country product is a powerful ruckman that has been dominant at stoppages and can win his own ball, averaging 17 touches during the Coates Talent League.
His aggressive nature and strong build holds the 18-year-old in good stead ahead of entering the AFL system.
At 202cm, Smith will provide valuable ruck depth for the red, white and blue.
Here’s how AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan described him:
Left-footed ruckman who uses his impressive frame to compete ferociously at stoppages and can win his own ball.
Was a strong contributor all year for the Gippsland Power in the Coates Talent League averaging 16.8 disposals, 3.7 marks and 19.4 hitouts.
Was particularly impressive for Victoria Country in its win over Western Australia at the National Championships.
Was unable to test at the state Draft Combine due to injury but his 3.13 seconds on the 20m sprint at the Coates Talent League testing day earlier in the year was an insight into his mobility for a ruckman.
He joins Ryley Sanders, Jordan Croft and Joel Freijah in the Bulldogs’ Draft Class.
Lachlan Smith - player profile
Height: 202cm
DOB: 15/10/2005
State: Vic Country
State league club: Gippsland Power
Community club: Warragul
Position: Ruck
