AFL Draft Preparation Tips: Getting Closer to Your Dream
Are you an aspiring Australian Rules Football (AFL) player with dreams of making it to the big leagues? If so, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with AFL draft preparation tips that can significantly enhance your prospects of being drafted. These tips encompass various aspects of your physical and mental development, lifestyle choices, and leadership qualities. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be on your way to maximizing your chances of making your AFL draft dreams a reality.
Highlights of the episode:
- Skills
- Conditioning
- Professionalism/Preparations
- Elite performance mindset
- Elite lifestyle
- Leadership
- Combine trials or testing
- Life outside of football
- Strength and Power
Master the Fundamentals
The foundation of any successful AFL player lies in their mastery of the basic skills. This includes kicking, handballing, ground balls, marking, and tackling. These fundamental skills are non-negotiable and form the basis of your gameplay.
Both Sides Matter
To stand out from the competition, work on honing your skills on both sides—left and right. This versatility can make you a valuable asset to any team.
Aerobic Capacity Training
Depending on your playing style, focus on either aerobic endurance or speed-based conditioning. Longer efforts or shorter, high-intensity intervals should be part of your training regimen.
Agility Is Key
AFL is a dynamic sport, so agility is crucial. Practice directional changes, power cuts, and forward and backward accelerations to become a more agile player.
Weekly Game Day Routine
Adopt a weekly routine that mimics the life of an AFL athlete. Each day should have a specific focus to ensure physical and mental preparedness for game day.
Develop Mental Resilience
Coping with setbacks is part of any athlete’s journey. Cultivate mental resilience to bounce back from challenges and see failure as a stepping stone to success.
Healthy Lifestyle
Maintain a well-balanced diet, emphasizing real, locally sourced foods. Fresh, seasonal produce can boost your energy and recovery.
Leadership Qualities
Showcase leadership through your actions and attitude on and off the field. Encourage and support your teammates, and engage in open, honest conversations to improve as a team.
Prepare for Combine Tests
Familiarize yourself with AFL combine and draft trial tests, such as the 2K time trial, yoyo, vertical jump, and more. Develop a clear strategy for each test to maximize your performance.
Maintain Life Balance
While pursuing your AFL dream is important, don’t neglect other aspects of life. Value your studies, display humility, and have a hobby outside of the game to ensure a well-rounded existence.
Strength Training
Learn proper techniques for fundamental gym lifts like squats, presses, pulls, and hinges. Having a strong foundation in these exercises will benefit your performance and protect your body.
In conclusion, becoming an AFL player requires dedication, hard work, and a well-rounded approach to your development. By following these AFL draft preparation tips, you’ll not only improve your chances of getting drafted but also become a better athlete and individual. Remember, the path to success in AFL is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay focused, stay determined, and your dream of playing in the AFL can become a reality.
