Drafted with pick 35 in the 2013 AFL Rookie Draft, Oxley has emerged as one of Collingwood’s most consistent performers at VFL level during this, his debut season, belying his relative inexperience with a sequence of composed performances.
Renowned for his efficient disposal and keen defensive awareness, Oxley’s demonstrated versatility has been duly capitalised upon at VFL level, having featuring across the half back line as well as up forward, netting four goals to date for Dale Tapping’s side.
One of six Queenslanders in the Collingwood squad, alongside the likes of Josh Thomas and Lachlan Keeffe, Oxley’s emergence emphasises the sheer scope of the Magpies recruiting program, having plucked the 20-year old from Redland in the North-Eastern Football League last year.
The second elevation made to the senior list in a fortnight, Director of Football Geoff Walsh said Oxley’s promotion highlights the formidable cast of rookies assembled by Collingwood in 2013.
“It’s just great for him obviously,” Walsh said. “For a first year player, Adam has come in and performed extremely well for a wing/half back. He’s just another one of the rookie list who is proving to be pretty strong.
“For us this year, it’s proving to be a good year for rookies in terms of their performance in the VFL. For a number of them, such as (Sam )Dwyer, (Kyke) Martin, (Caolan) Mooney and now Oxley, they have been rewarded with promotion.”
Oxley, who featured in two NAB Cup games earlier this year, has been elevated to the senior list in place of the injured Dale Thomas, who underwent surgery on his right ankle a fortnight ago.
