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This time last year, Brady Hough was a little known commodity for most AFL talent scouts.
Fast forward twelve months later, and the 18 year old from Harvey now looms as a WA draft bolter after an ultra impressive 2021 campaign.
Hough claimed Peel Thunder’s Colts best and fairest award, averaging 22 disposals per match as a tall midfielder capable of playing as both an inside midfielder and off a wing.
Standing at 189 cm, Hough used his height to push forward and kick ten goals in eleven matches, making him an attractive proposition for AFL recruiters.
He featured in the state under 19’s matches against South Australia, impressing with his ability to find the football and play different roles.
“It’s been an awesome year, I came up from country football last year and came up here (to Perth) to take my football to the next level,” Hough told Sports Breakfast on Wednesday.
“I started off in the Colts and had a great season there and played some consistent football, then earnt myself a spot in the state side which was great and also cracked in to the Peel league side.
“It’s just been a great year with so many opportunities, I don’t know what’s to come yet but fingers crossed.”
Hough played senior football in the South West Football League for Harvey Brunswick-Leschenault in 2020, moving up to play for the Thunder this year to further his development.
Hough said playing in the SWFL against hardened senior bodies has prepared him for the rigours of what could be to come at AFL level.
“I learnt a lot playing league last year, just protecting your body and stuff like that,” he said.
“I played league footy this year at WAFL level as well, I’m pretty confident going up against bigger bodies now.”
Hough had 22 disposals and slotted a goal in his league debut against Subiaco in round 22 this season, acquitting himself well against the eventual premiers to be named among his side’s best players.
The midfielder said his versatility made him an attractive proposition to AFL clubs, capable of playing a number of different roles.
“I’m pretty confident to play all over the ground, I’ve been swung forward and back in the state games and also played on the wing.
“I’m quite a versatile player, but if I could choose anywhere, I would play on a wing. I’m pretty confident I can play anywhere.”
Hough is studying physical education teaching away from football, and is the cousin of Claremont midfielder Rylie Morgan, who won the Prendergast Medal in 2021 as the best and fairest player in the reserves competition.
“I tried to watch him growing up, when I was in the state 12’s he was in the state 15’s, we were over in Geelong, and I watched a few of his games there. He’s inspired me a lot.” Hough said.
Having put his best foot forward in every match in 2021, Hough said it would be a dream come true to be drafted to an AFL club next week.
“I’ve worked hard for it over the years and sacrificed quite a lot travelling up to Perth and Mandurah 3-4 times a week.
“A lot of hard work goes in to it. I would be over the moon and so would family and friends.
“Fingers crossed and we will see what happens.”
The 2021 AFL Draft will take place in Melbourne next Wednesday and Thursday 24th and 25th November, with the rookie draft to be held next Friday.
IMAGE: Rookie Me Central