YOUNG Port Adelaide rising stars Jase Burgoyne and Jason Horne-Francis have been named in the AFL Players’ Association 22under22 40-player squad.
Burgoyne has enjoyed a breakout year at AFL level, playing 17 games and averaging just over 17 disposals per game.
Perhaps his most impactful outing this season came in Round 7, when the 21-year-old collected 27 disposals, 11 contested possessions, five clearances and had 451 metres gained.
Recognised for his pace and silky skills, Burgoyne took on his dad Peter’s number seven guernsey this year, which may have inspired his 2024 campaign.
Taken at pick 60 of the 2021 AFL national draft, the father-son selection made his AFL debut in 2022, after a particular impressive run of form in the SANFL.
Horne-Francis, one of Port Adelaide’s most damaging midfielders, has had an outstanding year in black, white and teal, missing just two games through injury.
Averaging just under 22 disposals and 5.8 clearances per game, the 21-year-old has also kicked 19 majors, showing his value in the forward line, with a strong mark and good accuracy in front of goals.
A powerful and explosive player, Horne-Francis was taken by North Melbourne at pick one in the 2021 national draft, and famously landed at the Power during the 2022 trade period.
In just his third season in the AFL, Horne-Francis demonstrates a never-give-in attitude, and can influence games with his ability to read the play and stand up in big moments.
This is the second time Horne-Francis has been named in the 22under22 squad, while it is Burgoyne’s first appearance.
The 22under22 is a fan-voted concept that recognises the best 22 players aged 22 and under for the entirety of the season (including grand final day), who have played at least 50 per cent of home-and-away matches.
The 40-player squad is chosen by chair of selectors, Leigh Montagna and an AFL PA internal selection panel, with support from Champion Data.
Voting is now open here, and closes at 11:59pm AEST on August 14.
