This year's Academy series begins on Saturday, when all six competing sides play at Blacktown in Sydney for the opening round.
It is the second year of the Academy series, after it last season replaced the division two NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.
Each of the four northern clubs – Greater Western Sydney, Sydney, Brisbane and Gold Coast – will field Academy sides, with Tasmania and the Norhtern Territory also competing over five rounds.
Here are some prospects for this year's NAB AFL Draft worth keeping an eye on across the carnival including a comment from QBE Sydney Swans Academy head coach Jared Crouch.
Nick Blakey
Forward/midfielder
195cm/80kg
27/2/00
"He'll play everywhere – midfield, forward and back. He's a tremendous athlete and a very smart footballer. I remember when Nick was 10 or 11 and he'd come down to the club kicking the footy when John was coaching so he's been around Sydney for a long time and he's a great talent."
- Jared Crouch - QBE Sydney Swans Academy coach
Zachary Cameron
Ruck/utility
192cm/91kg
5/1/00
"Zach will play in the ruck or in a key position, but he's only 192cm tall. He runs 2.8 seconds for the 20-metre sprint so has great power, which he uses with his jump in the ruck. He's still working on all of his skills but spent a lot of last year doing athletics. He's made the commitment to football in his 18th year and it's paid dividends so far in what he's shown at training."
Connor Flanagan
Midfield/defence
182cm/78kg
19/12/00
"He got a taste of things last year and went away and has gotten himself very fit. He injured his hand a couple of weeks ago which meant he hasn't been able to play as much recently, but that built up fitness base has held him in good stead. He'll play in the midfield and defence. I really like him because he naturally wants to bring the ball into the corridor and is an attacking player."
Kyle McKellar
Midfielder/defender
185cm/88kg
25/2/00
"A fantastic athlete with a strong, mature body. Kyle is courageous and will play as a midfielder or defender for us. He's another fantastic kid who has had a really good pre-season and worked really hard."
Sam Wicks
Midfielder
180cm/74kg
14/9/99
"Sam is an over-ager having not been drafted last year, but I thought he was outstanding last year for us at the championships. He's a midfielder who can play as a small forward or backman as well, and certainly when he's up forward he'll find a goal. A very smart footballer who uses the ball very well and shows some very good leadership."
