With speed and endurance to boot, Laitham Vandermeer spent his inaugural season lining up in 15 matches for Footscray, averaging 15 disposals. At times, he was used across all three lines and impressed enough to warrant a one-year contract extension despite a lack of senior debut. Vandermeer will have to wait. As a line-breaking half back, opportunities are slim at a club blessed with talent in that area. Even if Jason Johannisen pushes up to the wing, Ed Richards likely becomes that dashing flanker. Forget about the exciting Vandermeer for this year.
Vander where?
With speed and endurance to boot, Laitham Vandermeer spent his inaugural season lining up in 15 matches for Footscray, averaging 15 disposals. At times, he was used across all three lines and impressed enough to warrant a one-year contract extension despite a lack of senior debut. Vandermeer will have to wait. As a line-breaking half back, opportunities are slim at a club blessed with talent in that area. Even if Jason Johannisen pushes up to the wing, Ed Richards likely becomes that dashing flanker. Forget about the exciting Vandermeer for this year.
The likeable Laitham
After being overlooked in the draft twelve months prior, Laitham Vandermeer received his opportunity to become a Dog. He recorded the second most efficient ball use in the TAC Cup last season. A pacy outside runner, Laitham was only able to gather 13 touches per outing at the Championships as an over-ager. The 2019 season presents Vandermeer with an opportunity to work on his ability to affect both sides of the contest. Adding kilograms to his frame should be a primary focus as the young Bulldog aims to minimise his weaknesses. With development an obvious focus for the next year, the hard runner is not of fantasy interest.
