Draftee Heath Chapman and second year backman Hayden Young both share some key attributes that could make them exciting long-term players for Fremantle, according to assistant coach Matthew Boyd.
Both Young and Chapman were first round picks in 2019 and 2020 respectively, with Young selected at no.7 and Chapman at no.14.
Young is expected to give Fremantle a boost down back when he returns after missing most of the 2020 season with an ankle injury.
He played only five games in his debut season but showed potential with his six marks and 15 disposals in back-to-back games against Gold Coast and Adelaide before sustaining the injury in round six against St Kilda.
Boyd praised the 19-year-old’s hunger and determination.
“What I’ve seen from Youngy is a very driven individual who is trying to reach his best and establish himself as an AFL player,” Boyd said.
“I think when you’ve got that internal motivation, as well as his obvious talent, then it’s a pretty good recipe for a good long term player.
“I’ve been super impressed with his work rate, diligence and his application to getting better every day.”
Boyd said Chapman shared the same traits as Young, with the 18-year-old stepping up at training.
“I’ve been very impressed with some of the things that Chappy’s been able to do. He’s a quiet young man but he’s certainly having an impact on the field,” Boyd said.
“He’s been able to fit in seamlessly to what we’re doing training wise and the system we’re looking at playing.
“(Like Young), he’s another one with very special and unique traits that we’re looking to continue to get better.
“He’s a young man who’s really driven to be the best he can be. It’s a good combination.”
