Tasmania’s Rising Talent in the 2026 AFL Draft
Tasmania’s football prospects are making waves as the 2026 AFL Draft approaches, with several players showcasing their potential to become key assets for future teams. Among them, Hugh McCallum has emerged as a standout talent, solidifying his position as one of the state’s most promising prospects.
McCallum’s performances in the Talent League have been nothing short of impressive. His ability to find the ball and execute his role effectively has allowed him to consistently display his skills. This season, he has caught the attention of AFL recruiters, rising rapidly as a player of interest. According to Tassie Under-18s coach Scott Moore, McCallum’s development is built on his running capacity and ability to cover ground, which are his strongest attributes.
“He’s gone from strength to strength, built off the back of his running capacity and ability to cover the ground is clearly his strength,” Moore said. “He’s got a great understanding and willingness to learn what’s required for that wing role and has the flexibility to play from half-back to half forward as well.”
McCallum’s versatility allows him to sneak forward and contribute to the scoreboard while also providing defensive support. Moore expressed hope that McCallum could secure an Allies opportunity to showcase his skills on a higher stage. He praised McCallum’s clean disposal and nice kick, noting his growth in positioning, holding shape, and game intelligence.
- The growth in his running patterns, positioning, and willingness to move the ball forward has been significant.
- His IQ and eagerness to apply what he learns in games are key factors in his development.
- Moore believes McCallum is on the right path and expects continued improvement.
Other Notable Prospects
In addition to McCallum, Tasmania has other promising talents who are being closely watched by recruiters. Jess Bula and Archie Devine, both tied to North Melbourne, are among these prospects.
Bula, who is currently sidelined due to a fractured and dislocated finger, is expected to return before the end of the month. His initial performance was impressive, showing power and explosiveness that can break open games. Moore highlighted Bula’s ability to create opportunities and burst out, but emphasized the need for consistency.
“Jess has got power, he’s got explosiveness which is fantastic. He can break the game open and burst out,” Moore said. “It’s eye-catching. For Jess, it’s about consistency and doing it more often.”
Devine, on the other hand, is a natural ball-winner who has become more effective with the ball in hand this season. While he has been given midfield opportunities, he is expected to start his senior career from half-back. Like Bula, Devine has trained at Arden St with the Roos, where he has shown his ability to accumulate the ball and get into positions to receive.
- Devine’s growth lies in finding a balance between accumulating and damaging the opposition.
- In recent weeks, he has become more damaging by moving the ball forward.
- His kicking and handballing abilities allow him to break the game open.
- He is relatively new to the midfield spot, but his covering ability and engagement make him a valuable asset.
Charlie Bovill: A Versatile Defender
Charlie Bovill is another Tasmanian prospect drawing attention due to his size and versatility. Primarily a key defender, Bovill has also seen time on the wing and forward during the early part of the season.
“Charlie has played the vast majority (of his footy) as a defender, a third tall type who is able to roll off and provide rebound,” Moore noted. “We’ve also given him stints on the wing in recent weeks which allows an athlete of his size to showcase his running capacity.”
Bovill’s physicality and endurance make him a valuable player, allowing him to cover large areas of the ground. His ability to be a marking target for exit kicks adds another dimension to his game.
