The Western Bulldogs have drafted Perth winger Aiden O’Driscoll with their fifth selection in the 2023 AFL National Draft.
Taken with pick 55 overall, O’Driscoll is an elite runner from Western Australia who claimed first place in the 20m sprint (2.871 seconds) at the 2023 Draft Combine.
He also finished in the top 10 for the 2km time trial (6 min. 6 secs), agility test (8.302 seconds), standing vertical jump (73cm) and running vertical jump (92cm) - demonstrating his agility, endurance and speed.
While his numbers on the wing don’t always reflect the impact he has on the game, O’Driscoll is a proven asset up forward too.
He comes from a football family, with older brother Nathan and older sister Emma both playing for Fremantle.
Here’s how AFL Talent Manager Kevin Sheehan described him:
Wingman who caught the eye with his pace for Western Australia at the National Championships and was among the best players against South Australia and Victoria Country. Showed good footy smarts to keep his width on the wing and provide an outlet for his team and generally was a neat ball user.
His elite combination of speed and endurance set the national Draft Combine alight, where he was ranked number one for the 20m sprint with a blistering 2.87 seconds and finished fifth in the 2km time trial with an effort of 6:06.
Played nine matches for Perth at under 18 level, averaging 15.8 disposals and kicking seven goals.
He joins Ryley Sanders, Jordan Croft, Joel Freijah and Lachlan Smith in the Bulldogs’ 2023 Draft class.
Aiden O’Driscoll – player profile
Height: 175cm
DOB: 22/07/2005
State: Western Australia
State league club: Perth
Community club: Northern Saints
Position: Midfielder/wing
