Telstra AFLW Draft features strong showing from northern academies

The 2026 Telstra AFLW Draft is poised for significant impact from northern academies, with 16 of the 43 players invited to the Telstra National Combine coming from the academies of Brisbane, Gold Coast, Greater Western Sydney, and Sydney. Among the attendees is potential Carlton father-daughter prospect Sophia Green. The notable presence of northern academy players comes amid a shallower talent pool in the southern states, reflecting the growing influence of these academies on the draft. Discussions are ongoing regarding father-daughter eligibility rules for future drafts. Upcoming changes to the bidding process for first-round players are also anticipated.

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