Intensified is the bidding war for the country’s most coveted young midfielder, as assertions arise that Jaeger O’Meara possesses qualities akin to Chris Judd.
Access to the talented onballer, who has captivated AFL recruiters for the past year, will be traded by Greater Western Sydney next Thursday.
However, the West Australian teenager remains somewhat enigmatic.
At 17 years old, O’Meara cannot participate in AFL until 2013, yet he showcases speed, endurance, balance, vision, and skill.
Gold Coast Suns currently hold a prime position to acquire him by proposing the Giants pick No.4 in the upcoming draft.
The Suns might trade the mid-first round compensation pick obtained from Geelong last year with the Giants.
One veteran recruiter has compared O’Meara’s explosiveness to that of dual Brownlow medallist Judd.
“The ceiling for him is incredibly high; he possesses the tricks and tools to become a superstar,” stated the scout.
“He runs upright like Judd and shares a similar power out of stoppages.
“With excellent speed and agility to match, he can create opportunities from minimal situations.”
GWS is able to trade access for up to four players, including O’Meara, who were born between January and April in 1994.
The clubs presenting the most appealing offers will receive a pick to select one of the four players in a mini draft slated for Monday, October 17.
A number of clubs, including Geelong, are competing for the second pick, which is forecasted to be utilized for North Ballarat midfielder Brad Crouch.
“The other players GWS can trade are all quite talented young prospects, but they don’t come close to matching O’Meara’s quality,” remarked the recruiter.
Due to an ankle injury, O’Meara did not participate in testing at the AFL Draft Combine this week.
by Buford Balony
