Northern Knights forwards Kyle Langford and Reece McKenzie realised their footballing dreams on Thursday night as they were drafted by Essendon and Richmond respectively.
The Bombers got their man in Langford at pick 17, while McKenzie had to wait a little longer to be drafted by the Tigers at pick 77.
Knights talent manager Peter Kennedy said he was a little disappointed only two of the club’s players were drafted.
“Jason Castanga and Jayden Short were players we thought that may have also been picked up.”
Kennedy said the Bombers had shown a lot of interest in Langford.
“There was some interest from Collingwood in Langford and people thought they were interested in him at pick five, but I think it was smoke screens.
“Gold Coast was also interested. It came to Essendon and they followed through on their word and drafted him.”
Langford joins former Knights Brent Stanton, David Zaharakis and Michael Hurley at the Bombers.
“He has a lot of upside,” Kennedy said.
“He was born late in the year, so played most of his TAC footy as a 16 and 17 year old.”
McKenzie, who finished second in the TAC Cup’s goalkicking, joins the Tigers.
“Reece physically and athletically blew them away at the combine with his speed.
“I think that being a little inconsistent might have seen him fall so far in the draft. It’s good that he finally gets a chance.”
Kennedy said being a late draft pick maybe a blessing.
“It takes the pressure off him. If he turns out to be a great player, it’s a win for both the club and player.
“He could be the steal of the draft, but time will tell.”
Reece McKenzie.
