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Treacy backed to make an impact early

By Max Stainkamph

Jan 31, 2021

He was picked up in the rookie draft as a long-term prospect, but Cohuna product Josh Treacy's new teammates are already giving him massive raps.

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Treacy was selected at pick seven in the AFL rookie draft in December with the Dockers’ first pick, heading across to Western Australia in January.

Fellow key forward Matt Taberner said Treacy had torn up the training track and wouldn't be surprised to see him in Dockers colours at AFL level in 2021.

“I think he’s a lot bigger than (I was) when I came into the system. He’s strong and he’s got a body ready for AFL,” Taberner told The West Australian last week.

“I think he’s got what it takes to really contribute this year.

“In the two weeks that I’ve been working with him, he’s got a real eagerness to get better and improve and he works extremely hard. So he’ll come along really nicely I think.”

Taberner said key position forwards took time to develop.

“It’s a really tough position coming in as a young kid,” Taberner said.

“You’re playing on a guy who’s really strong and physical and it takes a while to develop those leading patterns and that sort of nous. And building your body to a point where you’re strong enough to win one-on-one contests.

“So it does take time and it differs from player to player. But there’s nothing wrong with that pressure. That drives you a little bit and that’s sort of how the growth happens.”

The Dockers’ 2019 draftee Hayden Young quarantined with Treacy for two weeks coming into Western Australia and echoed Taberner's thoughts.

“He’s got great (hands) and he’s a handy kick, so he’ll be a pretty exciting player for us,” Young said.

“I think he’s got the potential to have an impact this year.”