Darcy Wilmot has become an instant sensation after being selected by the Brisbane Lions in the first round of the 2021 AFL Draft.
Despite being the youngest player nominated for this year’s draft, the 17-year-old rebounding defender was the Lions’ first selection with pick 16.
Wilmot played his entire junior career with Yarrambat Junior Football Club, before linking up with Montmorency in 2021.
He played four senior games for the Magpies this year, which included a standout debut performance in a gripping three-point win away to Greensborough in Round 3.
Wilmot represented the NFNL at the AFL Victoria Metro Junior Championships at both Under-14 and Under-15 levels and featured for Vic Metro at the 2019 AFL Under-16 Championships.
He featured on the podium in the NFNL best and fairest three times as a junior. He won the 2015 Under-15 Blue best and fairest, was runner-up in the 2019 Under-16 Blue count and finished third for the 2016 Under-13 Blue award.
An eye-catching 2021 campaign for the Northern Knights confirmed Wilmot as a certain selection in this year’s draft.
Couple of cordials tonight for Darcy 😂
Best draft interview ever. #Uncaged pic.twitter.com/Dmfz57Fn3T
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) November 24, 2021
He was a standout during the shortened NAB League Boys season and was named in the back pocket of the 2021 NAB League Boys Team of the Year.
He averaged 15 disposals per game and was ranked among the competition’s top 10 for both intercept possessions and spoils.
Wilmot also produced a strong display as captain of Vic Metro in its win over Vic Country at Windy Hill in July, where his leadership skills stood out.
His late father Grant played five games for Collingwood in 1980 and was a revered figure in the DVFL – winning premierships as a player with both Montmorency and Eltham, before later serving as coach of both clubs, as well as Heidelberg.
Grant is a member of Montmorency’s Team of Champions, where he is named on the half forward flank.
The NFNL congratulates Darcy on his selection in the 2021 AFL Draft and wishes him every success throughout his AFL career.
We also recognise the outstanding achievement of both Yarrambat Junior Football Club and Montmorency Football Netball Club in assisting Darcy to reach his AFL dream.
