The top end of AFL talent for next year’s draft out of WA is not looking as strong as in previous years, with only two players named in the 2024 AFL Academy squads.

Peel Thunder defender Bo Allan and Subiaco forward Malakai Champion have been named in the squad that indicates the top talent in Australia.

The pair will be part of camps in Melbourne during the pre-season and in April as well as taking on VFL opposition and training with AFL clubs over the summer.

“It’s a significant recognition for Bo and Malakai because generally the best 30 or so players nationally are selected each year by a panel with AFL recruiters and AFL Academy staff,” West Australian Football Commission state talent manager Adam Jones said.

“On average, around 85 per cent of players selected in National Academies end up getting drafted.”

Allen, 17, is an 189cm, 81kg defender who played for WA as a bottom-ager in this year’s Under-18 National Championships.

The Peel Thunder product is a strong third-tall defender who Jones said was “a terrific athlete and a very smart footballer”.

Champion, 17, is a crafty small forward who kicked 22 goals in 14 games this season in a dangerous partnership alongside 2023 first-round prospect Lance Collard.

“Malakai is a dangerous small forward who has electric speed which he used to apply pressure,” Jones said.

“His goal sense is outstanding, which makes him very good offensively and defensively.

“Malakai is from Kalgoorlie and is part of the NGA Academy at the West Coast Eagles.”

There is hope that more draft talent will emerge next year, with the likes of West Perth forward Kayle Gerreyn and Claremont wingman Austin van der Struyf among the players who are on the rise.

West Coast rising star and first-round draftee Reuben Ginbey is an example of a teenage star who wasn’t part of the AFL Academy but had a stellar draft year to be taken early by the Eagles.