In a little over two weeks’ time, Hawthorn will run out for their first competitive match of AFLX, the league’s new high-octane version of the sport.
The Hawks will face Essendon and St Kilda, as well as a potential final against Carlton, Melbourne or North Melbourne, in the game’s exciting new format on Friday February 16 at Etihad Stadium.
As clubs around the competition begin to trial the new game style in anticipation of their first outing, it is quickly becoming apparent which players might stand out in the modified game.
Players that are more suited to the game are coming to the fore, so we thought we would have a look at which Hawks might thrive in the upcoming AFLX carnival (purely speculative, of course).
Jarman Impey
An opportunity to pull on the brown and gold jumper for the first time in AFLX would be an opportunity for Jarman Impey to quickly acquaint himself with the Hawthorn faithful. The speedy recruit will instantly prove an exciting inclusion to the squad, with his ability to play at either end of the ground should he be selected in the side in three weeks.
James Sicily
Versatility, high skill level and speed- three of James Sicily’s strongest traits. With a young squad expected to be picked for the February 16 round-robin event, Sicily may very well be one of the Hawks’ more experienced players. Not adverse to a long-range goal, Hawks fans can expect to see Sicily being a threat from wherever he takes his place on the ground.
Teia Miles
Intent on a break-out campaign in 2018, the AFLX tournament could provide Miles with the perfect springboard for a strong season. Similar to others who we expect to prosper in the new form, Miles boasts an ability to play in any position, elite foot skills and an impressive running ability.
Isaac Smith
If the Hawks vice-captain was to make an appearance in the game’s new format, he would likely find that the game is tailor-made for him. His long running, speed and powerful kicking would combine for valuable attributes. The reward of ten points for goals kicked from outside 40 metres would render Smith a constant scoring threat
AFLX Rules
- ● 60-70m (W) x 100-120 (L)
- ● 4 posts at each end
- ● Two 40m arcs- goals that are kicked on the full from outside the arc are worth 10 points
- ● 10 players per team- 7 on field, plus 3 on bench
- ● No restrictions on rotations
- ● No marks paid on backwards kicks- except in the forward 40m area
- ● Last touch out of bounds is a free kick
- ● Kick-ins from behind the goal line after all scores
- ● At least two players from each team must start each quarter inside their 40m arc
- ● Free shot from forward 40m arc directly in front for deliberate rushed behinds (10 point goal)
