Collingwood has laid the groundwork for a new chapter—one that could lead to long-term success and additional premierships in the future.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the AFL, Collingwood has
emerged from the 2024 AFL Draft with an eye-catching haul that has left fans,
pundits, and rival clubs stunned. In what can only be described as a draft
heist, the Magpies secured three highly touted prospects—Joel Cochran,
Charlie West, and Will Hayes—positioning themselves for a formidable future.
With many questioning how the club managed to land such a high-caliber trio,
Collingwood’s masterstroke has already ignited excitement among their
passionate fan base.
A Draft Day to Remember.
As the 2024 AFL Draft unfolded, Collingwood’s savvy moves took the
spotlight. The club entered the draft with significant needs across various
positions but managed to outmaneuver the competition, securing three of the
most highly-rated young talents in the country. It was a draft day performance
that will likely be remembered as one of the best in the club’s recent history.
The acquisition of Joel Cochran, Charlie West, and Will Hayes represents a
clear strategic vision by the Magpies. Each player brings unique qualities to
the table, and together, they form a well-rounded trio that could shape
Collingwood’s future for years to come.
Joel Cochran: The Midfield Maestro.
First to arrive at Collingwood was Joel Cochran, one of the most highly
anticipated midfield prospects in this year’s draft class. The 18-year-old has
been widely regarded as a potential future star, possessing exceptional ball-
winning ability, speed, and football IQ. Cochran’s performances in the under-
18 competition have drawn praise for his poise under pressure and his ability
to find space in tight situations. His vision and decision-making make him a
dynamic playmaker who can control the tempo of a game.
Cochran’s selection is a significant boost for Collingwood’s midfield depth.
Known for his leadership on the field, his development in the coming seasons
could see him become a key figure in the Magpies’ engine room,
complementing their established stars. Many believe that Cochran has the
potential to have an immediate impact at AFL level, making him one of the
standout picks of the draft.
Charlie West: The Versatile Defender.
Next up was Charlie West, a player known for his versatility and hard-nosed
approach to the game. A standout in the backline throughout his junior career,
West has the ability to play both as a shutdown defender and as an attacking
half-back. His composure and intercept marking are his key strengths, and his
leadership qualities have been well noted by scouts. West’s game style fits
perfectly into Collingwood’s defensive unit, offering the club additional depth
and flexibility.
While his tackling and physicality are standout features, West’s ability to read
the play and intercept opposition attacks will make him an asset in the
Magpies’ backline. He has the potential to develop into a key defender who can
lock down the opposition’s best forwards while also creating attacking
opportunities from the back half.
Will Hayes: The Exciting Forward Prospect.
Finally, Collingwood landed Will Hayes, a forward prospect who has been
tipped for big things in the AFL. Hayes is known for his agility, goal sense, and
ability to create chaos around the forward 50. His quick-thinking and ability to
take the game on make him an exciting player who can turn a match in an
instant. As a dynamic forward, Hayes has been compared to some of the
league’s best small forwards, with his sharp footwork and natural goal-scoring
instinct making him a threat inside the 50-meter arc.
Collingwood’s forward line now looks even more dangerous with Hayes joining
the ranks. His ability to crumb off the pack and kick goals under pressure
could be a game-changer for the Magpies, offering them a creative spark that
they’ve been looking for.
Why the Draft Heist Matters.
The 2024 AFL Draft was a pivotal moment for Collingwood, and the club’s
selections of Cochran, West, and Hayes are a clear statement of intent. Not
only do these players fill key needs for the Magpies, but they also add much-
needed youth and dynamism to a team that is aiming for sustained success in
the coming years.
Collingwood’s ability to secure these three talents has many wondering how
they managed to pull it off. While other clubs were focused on different
priorities, the Magpies have positioned themselves as one of the big winners of
this year’s draft. With such a promising crop of young talent now part of their
ranks, Collingwood’s future looks incredibly bright.
For the Magpies faithful, the 2024 AFL Draft will go down as one of the club’s
most successful draft campaigns in recent memory. With the acquisition of
Cochran, West, and Hayes, Collingwood has built the foundation for a new era
—one that could bring them sustained success and further premiership glory
in the years to come.
