Tom Steinfort Earns All-Australian Under-16 AFL Honours

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Geelong Falcons defender Tom Steinfort has earned a coveted spot in the All-Australian team for Victoria Country at the under-16 Boys AFL National Development Championships. Despite an injury that forced him out early in the final match, Steinfort’s performances throughout the tournament established him as one of the standout players.

Selected at centre-half back, Steinfort impressed with his strong displays during the opening rounds. Originally from South Melbourne Districts, he currently plays for the Falcons in the Coates Talent League due to his attendance at Geelong Grammar School. Standing at 194cm, Steinfort has been praised for his exceptional mobility and aerial skills.

AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan highlighted Steinfort’s versatility and composure on the field. “He is a tall defender and forward who is mobile and a very strong overhead mark, which he demonstrated at both ends of the ground before his injury early in the final game against Western Australia,” Sheehan said. “He averaged 13 disposals and 5.5 marks in games against Victoria Metro and South Australia.”

Tom is the son of former AFL midfielder Carl Steinfort, who played 65 games for Geelong and 27 for Collingwood. However, Tom is not eligible under the AFL’s father-son draft rule due to his father’s game tally.

Victoria Country faced a tough tournament, failing to secure a win and finishing last in Pool A. Meanwhile, Victoria Metro went undefeated to top the group, and Tasmania dominated Pool B, winning every match by an average margin of 84 points and finishing with a remarkable percentage of 355.

Steinfort’s selection was a bright spot for the Geelong Falcons, who had five players representing Victoria Country. Alongside Steinfort were Archie Blood (St Mary’s), Ted Buchanan (Colac), Nate Mensch (St Mary’s), Charlie Montebello (Torquay), and Kyan Walters (Newtown & Chilwell).

The AFL National Development Championships serve as an important platform for emerging talent, attracting attention from scouts and club recruiters searching for future stars. Steinfort’s ability to influence games both defensively and offensively, coupled with his calmness under pressure, marks him as a promising prospect in the AFL pathway.

Although Victoria Country’s campaign ended without a victory, individual performances like Steinfort’s provide hope for the future. His All-Australian selection not only celebrates his current abilities but also signals potential for further development.

For Steinfort, the honour caps a memorable tournament and offers motivation to continue improving, with the goal of returning stronger in upcoming competitions.