Reported by Niall Seewang
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THE AFL's decision to grant clubs a second mature-age selection in this year's rookie draft would be a boon for players plying their trade in state leagues, VFL football operations manager John Hook said yesterday.
On Monday, the AFL said it would give clubs the chance to punt on two mature-aged rookies, up from one last year. The rule will be in place until the end of 2012.
It could mean more players are plucked from second-tier leagues such as the VFL when the rookie draft is held in December, while recently delisted players could also be thrown a lifeline.
Players aged 23 and over are eligible to be selected as mature-aged rookies.
Hook said he viewed the AFL's decision in a positive light, even though the VFL could possibly lose some of its best players. ''I think it will only be a positive, as it will give more opportunities for players in state leagues,'' he said. ''It will give [AFL] clubs a chance to cover certain roles and take a punt on the best players from state leagues.''
