Carlton has taken Calder Cannons tall defender Matthew Watson as its Number 1 pick (selection 18) in the 2010 NAB AFL Draft.
Selection 18 - Matthew Watson
Position: Tall Defender
Height: 195cm
Weight: 101kg
DOB: 16/07/92
Club: Calder Cannons / PEGS (Pascoe Vale)
There is a lot to like about Watson. As the heaviest player at the NAB AFL Draft Combine and with a pair of the largest mitts, he’s hard to deny as he floats across the backline taking strong leaping marks. Watson shapes as the evolution of the shutdown defender - a little more movement than the Gorilla defenders of the past and perhaps a little more growth than many of the present crop.
The team that drafts him, likely in the early rounds, will be looking to soon insert him at centre half-back and build a defense around him.
He is a damaging long left-foot kick, and averaged 19 disposals and five marks while representing Vic Metro. He relishes a duel with an opposing forward and is aggressive in getting the better of them. For his troubles during the carnival, he was awarded Under-18 All-Australian selection.
With his uncle, Steve Alessio, being a former AFL star, he has the game in his blood.
What type of player are you?
A strong defensive player who enjoys a challenge against good CHF. Never wants to be beaten in a contest and uses my long kicks, aggressive spoiling and line breaking to my advantage.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble, and why?
Sam Gilbert of St Kilda because of his ability to break the lines and penetrate the ball in 50. Also his ability to take a good overhead mark.
What are your strengths as a footballer?
Long kicks. Closing speed. Aggressive spoiling. Breaking the lines. Overhead marks. Encourage teammates. Leadership on field.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why?
My parents because of all the driving they had to do for my training and games, especially long trips. Also my uncles (Anthony and Steve Alessio) on the advice they gave me on where I needed to improve on my game.
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