Pick 47
Name: Jacob Ballard
Height: 188 cm
Weight: 87 kg
DOB: 26/02/94
Position: Midfielder
Club: Northern Blues
From our recruiters: Jacob was very unlucky not to get selected in 2012 after averaging 24 touches a game for the Northern Knights. He played well for Vic Metro and tested very well at the 2012 draft combine. Jacob's 2013 pre-season was interrupted with patella tendonitis, but once he got through that he played some good football for the Northern Blues. Jacob is a terrific size for a midfielder at 188cm and 87kg. He has good endurance and has a huge work ethic in games. He's a great contested ball winner, he's got very good intent at the contest and his ability below his knees is excellent. He puts good pressure on the opposition.
In the media
“Rebounding defender who competes well in the one-on-one contests. Has a big engine and is super competitive.” – footballnation.com on 2 September, 2013.
A 186cm midfielder who hogs the contested ball. Broke through for five senior games after crossing from the Northern Knights – Herald Sun on 19 November, 2013.
Freo's Rookie Pick 47: Jacob Ballard
Our final pick (#47) in the Rookie Draft is 19-year-old Jacob Ballard from Northern Blues VFL