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Can the expanding number of capable youngsters push the Giants past their closest rivals the Suns and up the AFL ladder?
As is the case with fellow fledgling club Gold Coast Suns, progression is the key at Great Western Sydney in 2013.
The newest AFL club are heading into their sophomore season after picking up two wins in 2012 and an improvement on that number, no matter how slight, will be an acceptable result this year.
As much talent as there is out at Blacktown, coach Kevin Sheedy will be expecting plenty of inconsistency from his immensely gifted, yet undeveloped and inexperienced group.
There is plenty to like about GWS from a proven players viewpoint which includes skipper Callan Ward, former Melbourne ace Tom Scully, defender Phil Davis, midfielder Rhys Palmer, veterans Chad Cornes and Dean Brogan and new additions Stephen Gilham and Bret Thornton.
There is just enough experience from that group to help advance the development of the colossal list of burgeoning stars which at this point, before fully being established at AFL level, consists of the likes of Jeremy Cameron, Jonathan Patton, Toby Greene, Stephen Coniglio, Tom Bugg, Curtly Hampton, Will Hoskin-Elliott, Devon Smith and Adam Treloar.
Add to that a plethora of players still to debut including top draft picks Lachie Whitfield and Jonathan O’Rourke, Aidan Corr, Lachlan Plowman and Kristian Jaksch and there is enough exuberance within the Giants squad to become completely enamoured about what lies ahead.
However, it would be naïve of the experienced Sheedy and his support team led by Leon Cameron, Alan McConnell, Craig Lambert and Stephen Silvagni, to believe that results with such a young list will simply appear just because there is so much talent around.
You could go through almost all the GWS players as ones to watch in 2013 but the reality is, with the competitiveness of the AFL, the rawness of the Giants will make season 2013 a rollercoaster ride as they strive simply to bridge the gap to the Gold Coast.
Key players
Callan Ward – The captain kicked off his Giants career by winning season’s best and fairest. Hard-running midfielder who wins plenty of the ball.
Tom Scully – Much-maligned midfielder (because of his move from Melbourne) who possesses so much talent. Is almost certain to have a big year in 2013.
Toby Greene – Embarking on his second season following a standout 2012 in which he averaged over 28 disposals.
Break out potential
Shaun Edwards – The versatile Edwards, who can operate as both a forward and defender, is being tipped to have a big 2013.
Jonathan Patton – The number one draft pick from 2011 played just seven matches last year because of various injury problems but is destined to be a star.
Will Hoskin-Elliott – 10 games last season has the midfielder/forward primed to step up this year.
Promising youngsters
Lachie Whitfield – Number one draft pick is a naturally gifted on-baller with sublime skills on both sides of the body.
Jonathan O’Rourke – Taken with the second selection in the 2012 draft, O’Rourke is a classy midfielder who is expected to win plenty of the ball.
Lachlan Plowman – The athletic defender will certainly play senior footy in 2013. Possesses poise, balance and assuredness.
Key inclusions
Bret Thornton – Experienced defender from Carlton who could be used as a swing man going forward throughout 2013.
Stephen Gilham – Will bring plenty of solidity to the Giants backline after crossing from Hawthorn.
Notable departures
James McDonald – retired
Luke Power – retired
Predicted finish: 18th.
Worth a punt: Lachie Whitfield to win NAB Rising Star: $12
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