Collingwood has selected Next Gen Academy product Zac McCarthy with pick 55 in the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft.
The Pies secure the 199cm forward who played Coates Talent League for the Oakleigh Chargers and National Championships for Victoria Metro.
McCarthy, who is of Vietnamese heritage, will be a welcomed addition to the Pies’ growing young talent in the forward line, including last year’s draftees Charlie West and Will Hayes.
While APS commitments with Carey Grammar kept him to just three appearances in the Coates Talent League this year, McCarthy made immediate impact with the Oakleigh Chargers, averaging 17 disposals and 9.2 hitouts while adding four goals to the score sheet.
At national level, the 18-year-old featured in all four games for Victoria Metro, turning heads in their 35-point win over WA where he finished with three goals and four marks.
McCarthy's mother was born in Vietnam and becomes another graduate of the Magpies' Next Generation Academy alongside new teammates Isaac Quaynor and Reef McInnes.
The Club's National Recruiting Manager Shane O'Bree was pleased to add McCarthy to the Club's list.
“It’s great to welcome another NGA product in Zac, who is a tall forward and will be an exciting addition to our front half."
