Tasmania Devils announce first eight player signings for 2028 AFL debut
The incoming Devils signed seven under-17 players on four-year deals. They also signed one Tasmanian local who can play in the 2026 draft.
Tasmania's new AFL team, the Devils, confirmed its first eight player signings at a historic event in Hobart Tuesday night. The seven under-17s signed four-year contracts through 2030.
Their names are Axel Walsh, Angus Brown, Riley Stratford, Jake Miller, Griffin Barker, Nate Jenkins and Baxter Sruk. These seven players will play in the VFL during 2027.
They will then join the AFL for the Devils' debut in 2028. The club also signed Tasmanian native Hugh McCallum.
He is a midfielder eligible for this year's draft. He will miss most of 2027 due to injury.
Coach Ken Hinkley said the signings represent a key step. The step is building the club's first-season roster.
- 7
- Under-17 players signed
- 4 years through 2030
- Contract length
- 2028
- AFL debut year for Devils
- 12 across 2026 and 2027
- Total under-17s allowed under
Why it mattersThis is a historic moment for Tasmanian AFL. The club has locked in young talent early. This happens as the competition gets ready to enter the league.
AustraliaTasmania reaches elite AFL level; local talent pathway secured; major boost for state sporting profile.
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