Sam Cumming, a top 10 draft bolter from South Australia, is poised to make a significant move, thanks to his impressive performance and well-rounded skills. With a boarding school experience under his belt, Cumming is ready to take on the challenge of an interstate move, a move that could see him drafted by Richmond, Essendon, or Melbourne.
Cumming's journey began in the small town of Wentworth, NSW, where his love for football was nurtured by his father, Glen 'Ozzie' Cumming, a former player with over 350 games under his belt. The influence of former Hawk and Swan Ben McGlynn, who coaches Wentworth, and ex-Western Bulldog and Bomber Mark Alvey, who coaches Mildura, has also been instrumental in shaping Cumming's career.
His boarding school experience at Prince Alfred College in Adelaide has been a significant factor in his development, fostering independence and resilience. This experience has prepared him for the challenges of a new environment, a key advantage as he prepares for his potential move to a new club.
Cumming's talent is evident in his dominant displays at SANFL Under 18s level, where he kicked four goals and averaged 17.0 disposals in SA's championship-winning campaign, earning All-Australian honours. Despite a shoulder injury cutting his season short, his performance as a potential top 10 pick was undeniable.
With a combination of class, power, speed, agility, and competitiveness, Cumming is a versatile player who models his game after Isaac Heeney. His well-rounded skills and potential as an AFL midfielder have earned him the label 'the prototype AFL midfielder' from a talent watcher.
As the draft approaches, Cumming's future remains uncertain, but his potential and preparation make him a strong contender for a top 10 draft spot. The question remains: which club will he land at, and how will his experience and skills contribute to their success?
