Dream come true — Mt Barker young gun Arthur Jones taken by Western Bulldogs at pick No. 43 in AFL draft

Mt Barker speedster Arthur Jones has been drafted to the AFL, picked up by 2021 grand finalists Western Bulldogs in today’s AFL National draft.

The Claremont and Wesley College product has been snapped up by the Bulldogs with their third-round selection after a standout season in the WAFL colts competition and Public Schools Association.

The 18-year-old has been a draft bolter since a head-turning performance for WA against South Australia in a curtain-raiser game to the AFL grand final at Optus Stadium.

A late call-up for WA, he went on to have 16 touches including two goals to be among their best in a hard-fought win.

He also tested well at the AFL national draft combine and played in two of WA’s State matches in front of AFL recruiters.

In a statement on their club website tonight, the Bulldogs said Jones was “a player with tremendous upside, who can play as an outside midfielder or wingman, as well as a forward”.

“The 18-year-old is known for his endurance and impressive kicking skills,” the club said.

Jones’ speed and flare has seen him likened to three-time AFL premiership player Bradley Hill.

He played 10 games for Claremont in the WAFL competition averaging 12.4 touches and 2.1 marks but his ability to run and carry the ball stood out.

Speaking after Jones was drafted, AFL talent manager Kevin Sheehan said the Mt Barker young gun “made a statement” in the AFL grand final curtain-raiser, seizing his opportunity after getting a late call-up to the WA side.

He also praised his performance in the 2km race at the national draft combine, where he finished second overall in WA for endurance.

“If you dig a bit deeper, he’s from Mt Barker, part of the Krakouer clan,” he said.

“He’s only a lightly built but he has some special stuff and he has some spunk about him as well... what a reward for him.”