Want to know a bit more about our latest crop of draftees? Look no further as we find five things you should know about each exciting new Bomber.
First up is athletic key forward Harry Jones, who was picked up with selection 30 on Thursday night.
1. His father once donned the sash
You could say Jones was destined to be a Bomber and he is now somewhat following in his father’s footsteps.
Craig Jones was once a handy footballer himself, wearing the red and black at under-19 level as a defender for the Dons.
2. He is one of the draft’s leading athletes
Jones may stand almost two metres tall – and is still growing – but that didn’t hold him back from recording some terrific results at the NAB AFL Draft Combine in October.
An impressive runner for his size, the new Bomber finished finished seventh in the 20m sprint (2.963 seconds), equal-ninth in the running vertical jump (83cm) and equal-seventh in Yo-Yo test (21.4).
Jones weaves his way through the agility test at the NAB AFL Draft Combine. (Image: AFL Photos)
3. He idolised James Hird growing up
Jones, at just 18 years old, may be one of the last draftees to come through the system remembering watching the great James Hird in action for the Bombers, and the club champion left a lasting impact on the lifelong Essendon fan.
Two premierships (one as captain), a Norm Smith Medal, five Crichton Medals, five All-Australian selections, an Essendon Team of the Century member, a spot in the Australian Football Hall of Fame – I could go on. Hird is certainly not the worst player for a young Don to follow.
4. He is a massive fan of Joe Daniher and Jake Stringer
When it comes to current players, Jones has picked another pair of quality Bombers to admire.
Jones spoke openly on Thursday about his admiration for star forwards Joe Daniher and Jake Stringer, and the young gun is hopeful he can join them out on the field in the red and black in the future.
5. He has already played with two of his fellow draftees
Midway through the draft on Thursday, Jones said he was thrilled to see good friend and 2019 Vic Metro teammate Nick Bryan join him at The Hangar.
Soon after, Essendon NGA and James Hird Academy member Lachlan Johnson was picked up by the Bombers and Jones has also played alongside the recruit, this time in 2018 at the Calder Cannons before Johnson crossed to the Oakleigh Chargers.
This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.
