DOB
22/9/95

Height
192cm

Weight
85kg

Position
Tall defender

Recruited from
Geelong Falcons (VIC)

Summary
An Under 18 All-Australian this year, Gardiner is one of the best key defenders available in a draft generally short on key position players. The 192cm prospect is competitive, resilient, aggressive and a fighter. Though a key defender, he has pace to play on the speedier forwards and also offers the versatility to be able to push forward and take a mark if required. His endurance impressed during the U18 champs as he willed himself to contest after contest and threw himself at the ball. Gathered five rebound 50s in three games for Vic Metro.

2013 Stats
• Played 11 games and kicked 6 goals for Geelong Falcons (TAC Cup)
- averaged 9 kicks, 4 handballs and 6 marks

• Played 3 games for VIC Metro (U18 Championships)
- averaged 3 kicks. 4 handballs and 2 marks

Player comparison
Tom Lonergan (GEEL), Ted Richards (SYD), Ben Rutten (ADEL)

What they say
“The competitive tall defender finds a way to spoil when he looks out of position, pushing, shoving and fighting in contests. Gardiner probably plays as a second or third tall at the next level as he isn't enormous, but has shown he can compete with players bigger and stronger than him. He has improved his kicking, and can hold his ground in aerial contests.” – Afl.com.au draft expert, Callum Twomey

“He's so competitive that whoever we put him on, we always felt it would be a win for us”. – Geelong Falcons Coach, Andy Allthorpe

“One of my top goals is beating my opponent and helping the team”. – Darcy Gardiner

Related stories
Gardiner holds high draft hopes (courtesy of geelongadvertiser.com.au) - http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/sport/geelong-falcon-darcy-gardiner-holds-high-afl-draft-hopes/story-fnjuhrhu-1226759017861

Meet Darcy Gardiner (courtesy of afl.com.au) - http://www.afl.com.au/news/2013-11-06/15-days-to-the-draft-meet-darcy-gardiner