Tom De Koning epitomizes a fresh era of ruckmen reshaping the game, their impact extending far beyond traditional roles seen in past elites.
The improvement in Tom De Koning’s performance has been both rapid and remarkable. In a recent match against Essendon, the young Carlton ruck showcased his impressive athleticism, contributing significantly to his team’s victory. Recording a career-best 17 contested possessions and just one shy of his personal best in disposals, De Koning’s influence was undeniable. Champion Data’s AFL Player Ratings, the gold standard for assessing player impact, reached a career-high of 27.2 points, topping the charts for the entire round.
What sets De Koning apart is his embodiment of a new breed of AFL ruckmen. Unlike traditional giants who dominate solely through tap work, De Koning’s game is multifaceted. Despite fewer hitouts compared to his opponent, he emerged as the most influential player of the match. His ability to win first possessions after stoppages, particularly at centre bounces, underscores his versatility. With an impressive tally of clearances and centre-bounce clearances, De Koning has evolved into one of the league’s premier ruck-midfielders, seamlessly covering ground and providing the Blues with an additional midfield threat.
His recent performances highlight this evolution. Since taking on a more prominent role due to Marc Pittonet’s absence, De Koning has been a force to reckon with, leading the league’s rucks in various statistical categories. His impact extends beyond individual numbers, significantly improving Carlton’s turnover game. When playing as the sole ruck, the team’s scoring differentials from turnovers notably soar.
As Carlton prepares to face Geelong post their bye, the question of De Koning’s role becomes pivotal. The numbers advocate for him retaining the sole ruck position, presenting coach Michael Voss with a formidable asset in his arsenal. With De Koning’s versatility and impact, he may very well be heralding the next era of elite ruckmen in the AFL.
