Although it’s still early days, Darcy Parish has been flagged as a likely first round pick for the Bombers come Draft Time in November.
Hailing from the small rural community of Wensleydale in Victoria, Parish has caught the eye of many recruiters in the league with his dash, poise and skill – as well as an ability to play in a number of different positions, leaving the youngster as a highly sought after prospect.
2014 was a highly successful year for the 18-year-old who played five of six games for Vic Country at the under-18 championships, won All-Australian selection and came runner-up in the Geelong Falcons’ best and fairest.
The year finished on a slightly sour note for Parish after he suffered ankle ligament damage and a stress fracture in his fibula.
However, this didn’t slow Parish down and in his first game back for the Geelong Falcons his 34 disposals and nine clearances would see him finish as the clear best on ground.
His impressive form continued the following week in the AFL Academy’s first game against VFL side Werribee, where Parish collected 21 disposals, a goal and four inside 50s.
Parish would hit an unfortunate hurdle the following week, breaking his thumb in the game against the Northern Blues. Although he managed to see out the match, and still finish among the best players for the afternoon, Parish would require surgery and face an extended period on the sideline.
“I was happy to start the season off pretty strong,” Parish said in an interview with Fox Sports online.
“I got a little bit out of the recovery – bike sessions, a bit of fitness and I was still involved with the team. But you couldn’t get out on the ground and practice your touch.”
It wasn’t long until the midfielder was back out on the field, but the time on the sideline was certainly frustrating for the prospect.
The time out hasn’t hurt the interest in the youngster, however, with Essendon’s List Manager Adrian Dodoro confirming that the Club had kept a watchful eye on Parish throughout the year.
“He’s a quality player,” said Dodoro in an interview with AFL.com.au
“He’s a hard worker and he’s an excellent midfield prospect.
“There are 18 clubs that would love Darcy Parish on their list.”
With such talent, there’s no doubt that it’s not a question of IF Parish gets selected, more a question of where he will end up.
“Last year was good for me, but it’s last year,” Parish told AFL.com.au.
“This year’s another year, and I think I’m definitely ready for it.
“The dream has always been to play AFL so hopefully I get the opportunity.”
