Aaron Cadman's name being called as the Number One Draft Pick in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft has brought big smiles to the dials of just about everyone who has had anything to do with the young star's sporting journey. Scoop brings you some of the joy...
Popular GWV Rebels and Darley footballer Aaron Cadman's life has changed forever following his Pick One selection by the GWS Giants in this week’s NAB AFL National Draft.
The 18-year-old’s rise to prominence over the last 12 months has been nothing short of meteoric, according to GWV Coach David Loader.
"I would go as far as to say Aaron was rated in the top 80 potential draftees by a few 'experts' in January," he said.
"He's come a long way."
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Just some of the support for Aaron after Monday night:
"To finally hear Azz (called) at number one was incredible. Honestly, it felt like I was in a movie! It was so special; you couldn't describe how proud we (the family) are." - Joel Cadman (brother)
"We're thrilled to see Aaron drafted as #1 Pick. He's worked extremely hard to get to this point and we wish him all the best on his AFL journey." - Dan Jordan (Darley Senior Football Coach)
"Terrific effort by Aaron and reflection on the club’s junior program. When the news came through at training Monday night, the boys were rapt." - Craig Baker (Darley Football Manager)
"Outstanding, very likeable young man. Quietly determined, very positive and enthusiastic by nature. Infectious personality, resilient and great work ethic." - Rod Ward (ex-cricket coach)
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Loader said the 194cm winger-come-forward is a credit to his own work ethic and willingness to improve.
"Aaron is an absolute ripper, very coachable and true student of the game.
"On natural ability alone, I’ve seen plenty of them but it's simply not enough," Loader said.
"'Cads deserves everything that comes his way."
The humble apprentice, a 'sparky' to-be, was flanked by proud family at Marvel Stadium upon hearing his Pick One selection. His infectious smile and overwhelming accomplishment won the hearts of all and sundry across the AFL landscape.
GWS Captain and superstar Toby Greene presented Cadman with his jumper amid rousing applause. Even Geelong draft selection, Pick #8 Jhye Clark, later endorsed the sentiment.
"Was good to see Caddy go number one, there was no-one better to do that," Clark told Fox Sports interviewer and Western Bulldog great Brad Johnson.
Cadman becomes the third product of the Darley Football Netball Club drafted since 2018, following in the footsteps of former Fremantle Docker and reigning McDonald’s BFNL Henderson Medallist Brett Bewley and star Port Adelaide find Zak Butters.
Zak, a lifelong friend of the Cadmans' was an excited onlooker of last Monday night's proceedings.
"I'm over the moon for Aaron," he said.
"Seeing the work he has put into himself and his game is just reward."
Butters said it is so good to see another Darley boy join the AFL, “a perfect role model for other young kids coming through the town."
Cadman, already compared to Geelong Premiership forward Jeremy Cameron (at the same age), gave full voice and appreciation to the football loving nation for the first time, acknowledging his journey could not have been done alone.
"To share this (moment) with family and friends and everyone in this room is pretty special," Cadman said.
The young gun went Pick One ahead of 800 other nominations, ranking elite for disposals, goals, score involvements and inside 50 ground ball gets in his NAB League profile that culminated with a joint Captaincy appointment of the Vic Country team.
As Cadman prepares for a permanent move to Sydney, a change of postcode if you will, his loyal family and growing band of supporters can brace for a football ride of a lifetime!
We're all with you Aaron.
