What do recruiters look for? Obviously talent and character come into it. Current form at 18s level can be an indicator but very often the in-form 18s player turns out to be something else down the track. Too often so called "ready-made" league players do not have much scope for improvement or development, whether it is physical or above the shoulders. How do we measure potential? Not sure but plenty of stars have come from a modest draft position.
Powell-Pepper comes to mind. He burst onto the scene with his energy and physicality, but he was very much stronger than most other players of his age. I don't reckon he has gained much physically since being drafted or expanded his game much. I am glad we didn't get him but early on he was very exciting. He appears to be struggling a little now.
So regarding recruitment, talent first. Potential needs to be considered, however it may be recognised or measured. Character can be built with decent coaches/staff. Where they are from should not matter (I know it does in some cases down the track) because if you have excellent systems in place where players feel they are given every opportunity to improve and develop, with professional support, then retention becomes less of an issue. Lachie Neale should still be at Freo, but he isn't...and I daresay he just wanted to be happier in his footy life. Not too much to ask. So as much as recruitment is important, the systems in place are most important for overall sustained success. Football people at the very top need to be of the highest quality.
