The excitement around the newest graduate of Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy is already building, with NGA coach Tendai Mzungu expecting first-round selection Liam Henry to continue to prosper in an AFL environment.

Fremantle matched Carlton’s bid for the small forward at pick no. 9 at the 2019 NAB AFL National Draft on Wednesday night, officially securing the player who spent two years developing under Mzungu in Freo’s NGA.

Born in Tammin, Henry and his family are currently based in Derby in Fremantle’s Kimberley NGA zone.

Henry was one of WA’s best in the 2019 NAB AFL U18 Championships, making the All Australian U18 team.

He stood out in the deciding game of the tournament, collecting 25 disposals in a five-point win against Vic Country that sealed WA’s first national title in 10 years.

Mzungu is confident the 18-year-old can undertake the work required to make it at AFL level.

“He has a lot of upside in him and he had a lot of improving to do, he’s one to track over the next few years,” Mzungu said. 

“He’s a very polished player, he moves very well through traffic and can use the ball exceptionally well. He had a great carnival for WA in the under 18s and he showed off his talent there.

“He’s been great to work with, he had an opportunity to train at the club last year to see what he was like and he thrived in that environment.

“I know he’s learned off a few of the other players. He worked really closely with Michael Walters and sat down with Bradley Hill when here was here, and picked their brains. He’s a sponge for knowledge and I think he’ll develop really well.”

Mzungu is hopeful that Henry can become a fan-favourite at Freo. 

“One thing I know about Liam is that his application and his commitment to hard work have been there right the way through,” Mzungu said.

“We’re looking forward to our members and supporters being able to sit down and watch him over the coming years and I’m sure he’ll really commit to the club.”