Collingwood has selected key forward Charlie West with pick 50 on night two of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft.
Collingwood Selects Charlie West with Pick 50 in 2024 AFL Draft
In a strategic move on night two of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, Collingwood has selected key forward Charlie West with pick 50, adding a promising young talent to their forward line. West, a standout performer in his junior years, has been widely regarded as one of the most exciting key forward prospects of the draft.
Standing at 196 cm and weighing in at 90 kg, West possesses the ideal size and athleticism for an AFL key forward. His combination of height, strength, and mobility makes him a compelling option to help fill the void left by Collingwood’s need for a strong marking target in attack. West’s ability to compete in contested situations, as well as his strong overhead marking, sets him apart from many of his peers in this draft class.
During his time at the TAC Cup, West demonstrated an innate ability to position himself in the right spots and convert opportunities when they arose. His clean hands, even under pressure, coupled with his ability to read the play, allows him to impact contests both inside 50 and when moving up the ground. He is also a solid kick for goal, with the composure and accuracy needed to punish opposition teams when the ball is in his hands.
While West’s offensive capabilities are certainly a highlight, his development as a versatile forward is also impressive. He has worked on expanding his game to become more mobile around the ground, allowing him to push further up the field and be a valuable link in transition. His potential to play a role as a high half-forward or even pinch-hit in the ruck gives Collingwood additional flexibility in their forward setup.
The decision to select West also reflects Collingwood’s commitment to bolstering their attacking stocks. With the likes of seasoned players such as Darcy Moore and Brody Mihocek already leading the way in the forward line, West’s selection is seen as a long-term investment aimed at strengthening the Magpies’ depth and ensuring they remain competitive at the top level for years to come.
Collingwood’s recruiting team, led by Head of Football Graham Wright and list manager Derek Hine, are clearly excited about West’s potential to develop into a key piece of the Magpies’ future plans. His ability to complement their existing forward setup and grow into a powerful presence in the air and around the ground makes him an intriguing addition to their squad.
As West joins Collingwood’s ranks, the 2024 AFL Draft looks to provide the club with a talented young forward to build around, and all eyes will be on him as he embarks on his AFL journey.
