Port Adelaide has secured a significant advantage for the 2026 AFL draft, gaining Next Generation Academy (NGA) access to a potential top pick. The AFL informed clubs on Thursday that the Power would have priority access to Dougie Cochrane, a promising young talent.
This announcement clarifies Cochrane’s draft status, as he and his family had been exploring their Indigenous heritage. The 17-year-old’s application to join Port Adelaide’s NGA has been approved, confirming his eligibility for priority selection.
The Cochrane family provided a Confirmation of Aboriginal Descent certificate as part of the application process. Dougie Cochrane, a versatile 196-centimetre utility player, is the son of former Port Adelaide player Stuart Cochrane, and his brother Tom is currently on the Power’s list.
Significant Draft Advantage for Port Adelaide
The draft ruling allows Port Adelaide to match any bid for Cochrane in the 2026 draft, potentially requiring the club to use premium picks to secure his talents. This strategic advantage could be pivotal as the club looks to strengthen its future roster.
Port Adelaide released a statement on Thursday acknowledging the AFL’s decision, highlighting the extensive verification process involved in confirming Cochrane’s heritage.
“Port Adelaide acknowledges the AFL’s decision to approve Dougie Cochrane as a member of the club’s Next Generation Academy (NGA),” the statement read. “Dougie, the son of Port Adelaide past player Stuart Cochrane and brother of current Port Adelaide player Tom Cochrane, has had his NGA application pending while details of his family history were verified.”
Challenges and Verification Process
Stuart Cochrane noted the lengthy process of verifying the family’s Aboriginal heritage, which was compounded by his own health challenges. Despite being aware of their Indigenous background, the process took longer than expected due to these complications.
Dougie Cochrane has already demonstrated his potential against senior players, having played five games for Central District in the SANFL this year. His performance included a standout game where he scored four goals in a victory over North Adelaide.
Dougie Cochrane’s Rising Profile
At the under-18 level, Cochrane has been a key player for the Bulldogs, alternating between a forward role and a midfield position. His averages of 17.6 disposals, 6.0 marks, 3.8 inside-50s, and 1.9 goals per game over eight matches underscore his versatility and potential.
By the Numbers: Cochrane’s 2023 SANFL Stats
- 17.6 disposals per game
- 6.0 marks per game
- 3.8 inside-50s per game
- 1.9 goals per game
Implications for the AFL Draft Landscape
The AFL’s decision to grant Port Adelaide priority access to Cochrane could influence the strategies of other clubs in the upcoming drafts. With Cochrane projected as a top pick, his inclusion in the NGA represents a significant coup for the Power.
As the 2026 draft approaches, all eyes will be on how Port Adelaide leverages this advantage. The club’s ability to integrate Cochrane into their lineup could have long-term implications for their competitiveness in the league.
The move also highlights the importance of the NGA in fostering talent from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that players like Cochrane have pathways to professional football while celebrating their cultural heritage.
With the AFL draft landscape continually evolving, Port Adelaide’s proactive approach in securing Cochrane’s future with the club underscores the strategic importance of nurturing young talent through the NGA system.
