This article first appeared on afl.com.au
By Jennifer Witham
Former Campbelltown and Sydney University youngster, Tom Young has been traded to the Western Bulldogs after playing nine games with Collingwood since signing under the NSW Scholarship program.
The utility became a Bulldog after the club procured him in exchange for NAB AFL Draft selection No.71.
Young, 20, has struggled for opportunities in the Magpies' side and managed just seven senior games this year.
Recently, Collingwood football and coaching strategist Rodney Eade told AFL.com.au Young had promise and "some good attributes to play AFL footy".
"His form in the seconds was pretty good, he played down back for us in the seniors and a bit through the midfield," Eade said.
"He's another NSW lad so they just take a bit of time and hopefully now that it's probably crunch time for him, he can grab his chance next year."
Young has played nine AFL games after coming through the now-defunct NSW Scholarship program that saw him sign with the Pies in 2007 as a 15-year-old.
The Dogs have been active in Gillette AFL Trade Period, with West Coast midfielder Koby Stevens arriving on Wednesday and key back Brian Lake departing for Hawthorn on the first day of the trade period.
List manager Jason McCartney said Young’s fierce competitiveness and clean hands in close were some of his key attributes.
"We see him as a long-term prospect after he showed really promising signs at Collingwood over the past couple of seasons, particularly with his willingness to take the game on and his cleanness around the contest," McCartney said.
"Along with Koby Stevens, Tom is a person of sound character and is a welcome addition to our list."
Collingwood director of football Geoff Walsh wished Young well.
"Tom was wholehearted and we enjoyed having him at Collingwood," he said.
"We all hope that this new start, this new opportunity, works out well for him."
Last Modified on 25/10/2012 15:23
