In theory, any of the 18 clubs could have uncovered Jai Newcombe in the wilds of South Gippsland, and called out in his name in the national draft nearly five years ago, or invited him to training over summer and signed him in pre-season.

But to draft Newcombe, they would’ve had to see him play first.

Newcombe was a case of a rare jewel that the system missed – at least at first. Clubs overlooked him because he didn’t play in the elite under-18 competition now known as the Coates Talent League.

So, if you’re wondering why your club failed to pick up this bloke, who is probably Hawthorn’s premier player in the absence of Will Day and their best finals player over 2024-25, don’t blame the hapless recruiters. They didn’t underestimate or misjudge his talent.

They didn’t see him at all.

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