THREE North Ballarat Rebels footballers pushed their case for selection on an AFL list at the first day of the draft combine in Melbourne yesterday.
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In what could prove to be the most important week in their careers, Oscar McDonald, Dan Butler and Rowan Marshall were all put through their paces at Etihad Stadium.
The day consisted mainly of psychomotor tests, or reflexes, with the bulk of the physical training to come throughout the week.
The trio will be joined by teammates Sam Bennett, Tom Templeton and Jesse Palmer for Saturday’s state testing.
Rebels talent manager Phil Partington said the first of the four-day camp was often the most uncomfortable for players as they were forced to endure physical testing.
A number of them also underwent interviews with clubs on Tuesday night where they were grilled by officials.
Partington said many of Tuesday’s tests were somewhat difficult to prepare for as they revolved around mental reactions and decision-making.
“It’s pretty hard to train for – it’s almost based just on natural instinct,” he said.
“It shows how fast the athletes are at decision-making and what sort of decisions they make.
“It was probably the more nervous day for a lot of the guys before they get into the physical stuff.”
The Rebels players were expected to undertake the vertical jump tests on Tuesday night before they undergo sprint, agility and medical tests.
McDonald, younger brother of Melbourne defender Tom, is arguably rated as the best chance out of the three to get drafted, although all are realistic chances.
Elsewhere, Liam Duggan and Brenton Payne from the Western Jets, both of whom played in St Patrick’s College’s Herald Sun Shield side this year, are also expected to get drafted.
patrick.nolan@fairfaxmedia.com.au