Port Adelaide Football Club has officially welcomed three promising young talents to its roster following the National Draft. The club is excited about the addition of Tom Anastasopoulos, Lachlan Charleson, and Will Lorenz, who were selected during the second night of the AFL Draft.
Anastasopoulos, a forward from the Geelong Falcons, was chosen with pick 48 after the club made a strategic trade involving a future fourth-round pick tied to Essendon. Similarly, Charleson, who also plays as a forward, was selected at pick 52, following a trade with Hawthorn that involved a future fourth-round pick tied to Carlton. The club’s final pick, number 57, was used to recruit midfielder Lorenz.
Known for his exceptional blend of speed and endurance, Anastasopoulos is a player who excels in front of goal, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly to the scoreboard. Charleson, representing Vic Country in the national championships, is recognized for his impressive forward skills and scoring capabilities, notably highlighted by an outstanding eight-goal performance against Bendigo earlier in the season. Lorenz, who played for Vic Metro and was part of the AFL Academy, brings versatility to the table, capable of playing effectively as a half-forward or on the wing, and has demonstrated strong ball-handling skills throughout the season.
Geoff Parker, the national recruiting manager for Port Adelaide, expressed his enthusiasm about the new recruits. He emphasized the club’s comprehensive strategy during the trade and draft periods, noting a specific focus on enhancing the team with key forwards capable of pushing up the ground and impacting the game offensively. Parker stated, “We believe Tom, Lachlan, and Will will fit seamlessly into our plans.”
With the draft now complete, Port Adelaide is preparing for the upcoming AFL Rookie Draft, where they hold pick 13. This strategic positioning allows the club to continue building a competitive team for the future.
Player Profiles
Tom Anastasopoulos
Pick: 48
Club: Geelong Falcons
Date of Birth: May 31, 2005
Height: 176 cm
Weight: 65 kg
Position: Forward
Lachlan Charleson
Pick: 52
Club: Greater Western Victoria Rebels
Date of Birth: January 29, 2005
Height: 177 cm
Weight: 74 kg
Position: Forward
Will Lorenz
Pick: 57
Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Date of Birth: May 19, 2005
Height: 186 cm
Weight: 72 kg
Position: Midfielder