Torrens University Draft Target – Riley Thilthorpe

By ZAC MILBANK

He’s been labelled as one of the most exciting prospects in Australia and when you watch Riley Thilthorpe play, it’s easy to understand why.

West Adelaide coach Gavin Colville plans on using the 199cm teenager at League level again after the 17-year-old impressed in his six Statewide Super League games last year.

A member of SA’s AFL Academy Hub, Thilthorpe boasts incredible athleticism and mobility for someone of his size while being able to play in the ruck and deep inside the 50m arc.

No wonder he is the front-runner to be the first Torrens University Draft Target selected from SA in this year’s AFL Draft.

“Riley has already played well at league level and is a unique tall in that he is just as good at ground level as he is in the air,” Torrens University SA U18 coach Tony Bamford said.

“He’s your modern, AFL-style ruckman who can rack up 25 possessions.’’

The Goodwood Saints product grew up playing Ice Hockey and dreaming of a lengthy Cricket career before settling on Australian Football as his chosen sport.

And by watching the clips below, it’s easy to see why given he slots an amazing checkside goal from a set shot while also displaying his ability to mark on the lead while playing against stronger opponents in League company.