Calder Cannons Isaac Kako has capped off a strong under-18 AFL national championships competition being named in the All-Australian team.
Kako, who kicked three goals for Victoria Metro in the championship game against Victoria Country, was named in the forward pocket of the All-Australian team.
The small forward was dynamic with his speed and lateral movement and extremely hard to contain.
He kicked eight goals, including an impressive three goals in the decider. Overall averaged 14.5 disposals (50 per cent contested) and was an important contributor in Victoria Metro’s championships win.
He Is eligible to Essendon under the AFL’s NGA rules in the draft later this year.
Kako was one of eight Vic Metro players to be named in the All-Australian squad.
Larke Medal winners Harvey Langford (Victoria Country) and Leo Lombard (Allies) were both selected in the All-Australian midfield. The duo tied for this year’s competition best and award with 21 votes, finishing two ahead of Smith in third.
Victoria Metro midfielder Levi Ashcroft and South Australian speedster Sid Draper both became dual All-Australians at under-18 level after being selected as bottom-agers in 2023. The duo were both named on the interchange in this year’s team.
Hunter Harrison Medal winner Zeke Uwland was also selected in the All-Australian team. The Hunter Harrison Medal is presented to the best player in the Academy Series, which involves non-Victorian Academy teams competing in the Coates Talent League.
The only bottom-age player selected in this year’s All Australian team, Uwland was named in the back pocket after starring for the Allies at the championships, which continued his hot form from four Coates Talent League appearances for the Gold Coast Suns Academy, where he averaged 24.5 disposals and two goals per match.
Victoria Metro head coach Rob Harding was selected as coach of the All Australian team.
