THE wait for several of the Bendigo Bank Pioneers best of the past two seasons is almost over.
Sam Heavyside and Jacob Chisari, Isaiah Miller, Brandon Spurr and Jordan Mangan are considered the club's leading prospects for Thursday's AFL national draft.
Pioneers coach David Newett and regional manager Ray Byrne said all five had outstanding seasons in the TAC Cup.
Miller's year included 10 matches for the Pioneers, two with Bendigo Gold in the VFL, and being in the AIS program.
Newett said Heavyside's fierce attack on the contest and ability to win the footy inspired team-mates.
The gun midfielder from Strathfieldsaye Storm was the Pioneers club champion in 2011.
After an injury-riddled 2012, Heavyside played last season as a top-age player.
Kyneton clubmates Mangan and Spurr were also top-age players in the TAC Cup.
Byrne and Newett said the key big men had improved rapidly since they joined the TAC Cup program and their versatility was a huge asset.
South Mildura's Jacob Chisari earned the Neville Strauch Memorial Trophy as Pioneers club champion the past two years.
He was a joint winner of the Morish Medal for best and fairest in the TAC Cup and among the league leaders for hard-ball gets, clearances and tackles.
Thursday's draft is on the Gold Coast. The rookie draft is on November 27.
Bendigo Pioneers anxiously await decision by AFL clubs
Last Modified on 20/11/2013 11:37
