Teenage football sensation Angus Clarke is ready to fly after being drafted by the Bombers in last week’s 2024 Telstra AFL Draft.
The youngster was selected by Essendon at pick 39 in Thursday night’s draft and has already arrived in Melbourne to take part in the club’s pre-season.
Having played for East Gambier in the Limestone Coast Football Netball League, the Tantanoola lad will not even have to change his footy colours as he gets set to don the iconic black and red Bombers kit.
Clarke had a big year in football, playing 10 games for Glenelg in the Under 18 competition where he averaged 16.7 disposals, while also playing in every game for South Australia in the Under 18 National Championships, averaging 17 disposals, 5.8 intercept possessions and two intercept marks.
His hard work and dedication to the sport paid off in September with Clarke invited to the AFL combine where he performed well, finishing third in the 2km time trial.
He was drafted as a general defender and will fit in nicely with Millicent’s Mason Redman in the backline.
The young gun is set to learn a lot from his South East mentor, as he will be living with him in Melbourne.
On draft night, Clarke was praised for his intercepting and metres gained abilities as well as his endurance.
Fox Footy had Clarke playing a similar game to future teammates Jordan Ridley and Redman.
Clarke told The SE Voice it was a surreal experience being drafted by the Bombers, watching the draft unfold surrounded by friends and family at the farm.
Leading into night two Clarke said he had certainly experienced some nerves, having attracted interest from multiple clubs.
“I was very, very nervous, I did not know when I was going to go or where I was going to go, so it was a great surprise,” he said.
Clarke said he was looking forward to getting to know his new teammates, with his focus firmly on working hard to secure a spot in the senior squad.
“I’m just looking forward to meeting all the boys and getting into it and to try and get a game first round,” he said.
Clarke said while there were not any particular players he was looking forward to meeting, he was excited to soak up the team atmosphere and learn as much as possible.
“All of them will be good to meet, I’m just keen as,” he said.
Clarke’s main goal for the upcoming season is to be selected for a game of senior AFL.
“Getting a game is the biggest one, to get one game in the AFL is a great achievement, so hopefully to get one and then many more after that,” he said.
One thing is for sure, the future is bright for the newest Baby Bomber.
