COVID has affected every junior footballer differently, but for Tasmanian Sam Banks it’s allowed him to accelerate his development ahead of November’s National Draft.
Banks, who is the Apple Isle’s best draft prospect this year, is a smooth-moving half-back who can push into the midfield if required.
While COVID had impacted the last two NAB League seasons, the Tasmania Devils star opted to go back to state level to play senior football with Clarence.
The teenager said that added game time alongside and against senior players had been a worthwhile experience throughout the turbulence of the last two seasons.
“I think it’s massive (playing senior football ahead of the draft),” he said on SEN Breakfast.
“I got my first year in at the Devils when I was 16, but the second year (in 2020) was postponed early so I went back to play senior footy with Clarence last year and it was really good for all us young fells.
“Just to be around the bigger bodies, I think it holds you in really good stead, that’s for sure.”
Banks captained the Devils in the NAB League in 2021, continuing his strong form after an injury setback earlier in the season.
He said being able to hold a leadership position was something he didn’t take lightly.
“I’ve had the honour of captaining Tasmania a few times,” he said.
“I’ve been playing a bit (higher) than my age group so when I when I go back to my own age group, I’ve always loved the opportunity to be able to lead Tassie.
“It’s something that I’ve really loved.”
Banks is expected to be taken as early as the third round of the draft, which begins on November 24.