Rising Stars in the Spotlight
Tasmania Devils’ Under-18s coach, Jeromey Webberley, has highlighted the impressive growth of Jaxon Artemis, a player who is now attracting attention from AFL clubs ahead of the Mid-Season Draft on Tuesday. His development has been significant, particularly in his defensive transition, which has made him a strong candidate for selection.
Webberley shared his insights with Zero Hanger, stating that Artemis has shown notable progress in understanding defense and how he can leverage his athletic abilities to impact the game defensively, not just offensively. He added that Artemis is making strides towards becoming a consistent defensive player.
With Artemis expected to be selected in the draft, the Devils have chosen to rest him from their most recent game to avoid any potential injury, especially since the club has a bye this weekend. In his last match, Artemis recorded 27 disposals in a draw against Werribee, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively from half-back.
Webberley praised Artemis’s offensive skills, including his ability to break the game open, receive handballs, and create scoring opportunities. He noted that Artemis’s defensive improvements at the start of the year have been a highlight, and his transition across the straight has given him this opportunity.
Artemis arrived at Tasmania with a WAFL senior premiership under his belt and was named the state’s Most Valuable Player at the 2024 Under-18s National Championships. Playing without being selected has provided him with a strong perspective on the challenges of the football landscape.
“Jacko’s a happy go lucky high energy guy who fits within the group well. He’s been open and honest about managing expectation and he’s done it really well,” Webberley said. “He has strong relationships across the program and has allowed his footy to do the talking.”
After missing out in his 18th year, Artemis understands the draft process and knows there are no guarantees. He focuses on what he can control around preparation and recovery, which allows him to perform at his best.
Other Players in the Conversation
Max Mapley is another Devil in Mid-Season Draft discussions. He is among several tall players that clubs are considering and has taken on the ruck load for the Devils in the first two months of the season, as Cam Owen, the preferred big man, has been injured.
Webberley described Mapley’s start to the year as outstanding. Although not as tall as some other rucks, Mapley is extremely athletic with good vertical jump and follow-up skills. He has impressed with his ability to impact the game at ground level for a tall player.
“He’s had to shoulder a lot of load being a number one ruck at 21 years of age,” Webberley said. “The new ruck rules have set up for Max. He’s a run and jump player and his follow up so the new rules have allowed him to blossom.”
Having coached Mapley at Under-18s level prior to this season, Webberley views him as a key defender long term. This view is echoed by his player Agent, Tim Hazell, who spoke to Craft of the Draft on Friday.
Other Notable Players
Small forward Jed Hagan and former Essendon player Jye Menzie are other Devils to have attracted mild interest ahead of the Mid-Season Draft. Clubs were intrigued by Hagan’s rapid start to the season, with Webberley lauding his blend of pressure and ability to get involved in scores. However, the interest has since died down after Hagan sustained a rib injury in the VFL state game.
Menzie, meanwhile, has had minor interest from West Coast, which is interested in taking experienced players but appears unlikely to be selected. Having played at Essendon as a small forward, the club has worked with him to improve his flexibility, providing him with the opportunity to play as an inside midfielder.
The Broader Picture
While Tasmania will be able to provide VFL players with a golden ticket onto its AFL list, Webberley highlighted the significance of having players from the club find their own way into the top flight. He emphasized the importance of aspirations and an aspirational program, noting that having guys in consideration for the Mid-Season Draft is outstanding.
“We want all of our players to have aspirations and be an aspirational program,” Webberley said. “We’d love to keep them here because they’re good players for us and we’d love to put them on our AFL list but we want people to reach their childhood dream.”
He concluded by expressing hope that those players get an opportunity, reinforcing the club’s commitment to helping players achieve their goals.
