National Recruiting Manager Dom Milesi gives a rundown on the Bulldogs welcomed over the draft period, including Roarke Smith who was re-drafted as a rookie.

Jamarra Ugle-Hagan

Pick 1, National Draft

“It’s a fantastic story – Dave Newton and our Next Generation Academy had done a lot of work with Jamarra over the last three or four years.

“It’s really exciting for the Club to have the number one pick in Jamarra – I’m sure everyone has seen his highlights package, but he’s a fantastic character as well, and know he’s raring to go and looking forward to starting on Monday.”

Dominic Bedendo

Pick 55, National Draft

“We’re really excited about Dom’s aerial presence - he’s got the leap, but he’s also really prepared to use it in games and he really jumps at the footy.

“We think he’s got scope at either end of the ground – he’s obviously very lightly framed and is going to take a bit of time to develop so we’ll be patient with him, but we think he’s the type of player that after a year or two of development, you just never know (what will happen).

“The appealing thing about someone like Dom, is that we’re open to playing him in multiple positions over the next year or two to see what position he really wants to make his own.”

Lachlan McNeil

Pick 11, Rookie Draft

“Lachie is a great story – it’s always great to see guys that get overlooked initially continue to fight their way and eventually get an opportunity at AFL level.

“He didn’t get drafted last year, but to his credit really worked on his game this year and actually played every game in the Woodville-West Torrens seniors – and had quite an influence in the grand final.

“He’s played a variety of roles – he’s an inside player, but is also very good on the wing as well, and has got some genuine speed which I think compliments the mix of the midfielders we’ve got now.”

Roarke Smith

Pick 26, Rookie Draft

“Roarke was playing in our best side at the end of the year – he’s a very versatile player, a fantastic clubman, and we really think he’s an important part of our squad for next season.

“With our strategy regarding Jamarra, we had to have a number of list spots open going into the National Draft with points attached, which was part of the reason Hayesy (Will Hayes), Cav (Ben Cavarra) and Roarke all had to drop off the list initially, but we were keen to keep all three and fortunately Roarke was available to be take in the Rookie Draft.”