Sport
27 November, 2024
Unwin drafted to Bombers
THE future looks bright for Cobden footballer Rhys Unwin, drafted to the Essendon Bombers at pick 61.
Night two of the 2024 Telstra AFL National Draft saw Essendon secure a further four draftees, including forward Rhys Unwin, midfielder Zak Johnson, defender Angus Clarke and Kayle Gerreyn.
Unwin joins the Bombers after an exciting season with the GWV Rebels and an appearance at the national championships with Vic Country.
The 179cm left-footer has speed to burn, clocking a creditable 2.88 second time in the 20-metre sprint at the National Draft Combine to finish third overall.
He also registered a fifth placing in the agility test with a time of 8.01 seconds.
While normally utilised as a small forward, Unwin showed his talents in the midfield during the Coates Talent League grand final where he had 11 clearances against the Sandringham Dragons and was named as one of the Rebels’ best.
Cobden Football Netball Club president James Green was full of praise for the young star, saying the club was excited for what was to come.
“We had a great run of draftees about 10 or 12 years ago, including the likes of Zac Merrett and Shaun Darcy, and to now see Rhys follow in their footsteps is just wonderful,” Green said.
“This is great not only for Rhys and his family but also for our club, and the community in general.
“We all wish him well with his footy career and if his experience is anything like others before him, he will have a great run with the Bombers.”
Having spent the majority of his junior football years at Cobden, Unwin managed to play two senior games with the club last season in between his Rebels commitments.
Read More: Cobden