We welcome Murray Bushranger’s forward Liam Hetherton as a Category B Rookie.

Liam Hetherton

DOB: 2.5.2007

Recruited from: Murray Bushrangers

Position: Forward

Having taken a back seat to several eventual draftees last year, Liam Hetherton was primed to snatch centre stage in 2025. The key forward managed nine Coates Talent League games with the Murray Bushrangers.

He booted 11 goals in his first three CTL appearances. He also represented the National Academy in two games against VFL opposition and continued to show growth. That was until two stress fractures were discovered in his back, with the 197cm talent forced to undergo a 16-week recovery which ruled him out for the rest of the year.

While the start to Hetherton’s top-age campaign was positive, he sought to peak at the National Championships in Allies colours. That opportunity was taken away from him, as was the chance to compete at the National Draft Combine. 

Being drafted would cap off a storied journey for Hetherton. He started out up in Mackay (Queensland) and went on to represent the GWS Giants Academy during the 2023 Under 16 National Championships. The North Albury product then progressed into the Bushrangers Under 18 program and represented NSW/ACT in the Under 17 Futures trials, bursting onto the scene with five goals against Vic Country.

Hetherton’s progression continued with another three majors in the National Futures showcase on AFL Grand Final Day, which went even further to securing his AFL Academy induction. 

 

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