AFL dream becomes a reality for a VAFA star

Brodie McLaughlin is a Gold Coast player after earning a contract for 2023 under the AFL’s SSP rules.

The dream of playing in the AFL is on the verge of being realised for McLaughlin who has spent the past two seasons plying his trade with Frankston in the VFL.

Prior to his elevation to North Melbourne’s VFL list in 2019, McLaughlin played 33 games, kicking 20 goals with Bulleen Templestowe at Ted Ajani Reserve, before moving over to De La Salle becoming the focal point of the forward line with 56 goals from 31 games. During his time with Bulleen Templestowe he won the club Best and Fairest (2017), was named in the Division 2 Team of the Year and selected for the Big V tour of Ireland.

He was an impressive performer with Frankston in the VFL throughout 2022 kicking 24 goals from 12 outings, capturing the eyes of the Gold Coast Suns. He becomes the clubs second SSP signing this off-season with the club also acquiring the services of Jed Anderson late last year, former Hawk and Kangaroo.

It’s been a journey for McLaughlin with the 25 year old going above and beyond in his football preparation to be ready for this opportunity. Frankston coach Danny Ryan telling the Dolphins website in 2021, Brodie McLaughlin is “the first to get here and the last to leave.” Not leaving SkyBus Stadium until 10pm most training nights “for about 30 minutes after training, he likes to do some marking and leading.” he said

McLaughlin comes into the AFL as a well-credentialed mature-age recruit, and knows he can’t take this moment for granted, having his share of adversity. A broken leg in 2019, a lockdown affected 2020 campaign, and a lower-back injury to begin 2021.

The VAFA extends its congratulations to Brodie McLaughlin and can’t wait to see him pulling on the red and gold in the AFL throughout 2023.

More to come.

Photo: AFL Photos & Bulleen Templestowe FC