Langdon, 19, was best on ground in the Magpies’ 34-point win against Carlton on Friday night.
Fielded in his now familiar role across half back, Langdon demonstrated poise and composure belying his years, routinely foiling the Blues with his innate ability to regularly intercept attacking forays.
Collecting 23 disposals, including 10 contested possessions, and eight marks, Langdon once again demonstrated his penchant for the big stage, continuing a meteoric rise which began with his AFL debut in round one.
The former Sandringham Dragon featured in all three pre-season games in February, with the ease of his transition to the elite level helping mount an irrepressible case for selection in the opening match of the season.
Langdon’s subsequent performances have proven sufficient reward for Collingwood’s show of faith, ranking eighth overall in the competition for intercept marks, and 12th for rebound 50s.
Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley said he has been impressed by Langdon’s resilience.
“The last two weeks have been Tom’s best two games; to be as composed, improve as quickly and to show that sort of form is a credit to him. We have found a player who still has a lot to learn and will still have his ups and downs but is showing us he is capable of playing at the highest level.
“Tom was originally passed over in the 2012 draft giving him a resilience, a drive and a desire to embrace his opportunity and take it with both hands. Having played only seven games, he still has a long way to go in his football journey, but what we have seen so far has been very encouraging.”
Tom was selection No. 65 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft.
He was played junior football with Glen Iris before joining TAC Cup side the Sandringham Dragons. He represented Vic Metro in the 2012 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships.
After being overlooked in the 2012 draft, he played senior football in the VFL with the Sandringham Zebras during his final year in the TAC Cup and attended the 2013 Draft Combine where he tested well.
Tom Langdon
Debut: Collingwood v Fremantle, Round One 2014 at Etihad Stadium
Games: 7
Goals: 0
Position: Medium defender/midfielder
Height: 189cm
Weight: 85kg
Born: 9/6/94
Recruited from: Glen Iris/Sandringham Dragons (TAC Cup)
