Reaching the top level of footy requires dedication, and few have worked harder than Harvey Langford. The co-captain of the Dandenong Stingrays has proven to be one of the most consistent performers in his draft year, emerging as a top-five prospect and even entering the conversation for the coveted No. 1 pick.
But Langford’s rise didn’t happen overnight. Unlike highly touted names like Levi Ashcroft, Finn O’Sullivan, or Jagga Smith, Langford entered the season without much fanfare. Yet now, he’s firmly in the mix at the top of the draft board.
It was being snubbed from the Vic Country U16 squad that became a turning point in his career. Langford used that disappointment as fuel, channeling his energy into becoming a better player.
“Since then, I’ve worked so hard,” Langford told foxfooty.com.au. “It taught me the importance of hard work and resilience. Missing out on that 16s team really pushed me to take my game to another level.”
Though he was “pretty gutted” at the time, Langford quickly absorbed feedback from coaches and focused on improving his game. One area of focus was his stoppage work, something he’s since turned into a major strength.
“The feedback was about making an impact at more stoppages, so I worked on that a lot coming into my bottom year at Stingrays,” he said. “The best advice I’ve received is to make the most of every opportunity and work as hard as possible—it’s simple, but it works for me.”
Now, Langford’s competitiveness and ability to dominate in contested situations have caught the eye of AFL recruiters. Known for his high footy IQ, he’s a force around stoppages, and his ability to go forward and impact the scoreboard makes him a versatile threat. His aerial skills have also improved throughout the season.
Langford’s standout year with the Stingrays saw him lead the team to a preliminary final appearance in the Coates Talent League, averaging 25.9 disposals, 5.1 marks, and 4.7 tackles per game, along with kicking 20 goals in 15 matches. His performances during the National Championships were even more impressive, where he averaged 25.5 disposals (5th in the competition), 6.2 marks, and 6.2 clearances. His efforts earned him joint winner of the prestigious Larke Medal for the best player at the Championships.
The possibility of being selected with the No. 1 pick is an exciting one for Langford, especially as a lifelong Richmond Tigers fan.
“Being pick 1 would be pretty cool, especially to the Tigers,” he said. “There’s more pressure with being pick 1, but I think I’d handle it. I know who I am, and I’ll keep working hard.”
Langford’s leadership qualities also set him apart. Hailing from Mt Martha, an area known for producing AFL talent, he learned from players like Cooper Simpson, who captained him at the Stingrays and now plays for Fremantle.
“I learned a lot about leadership from Cooper and Harry (DeMattia),” Langford said. “As captain this year, I’m proud of how I led the team. My focus has always been on leading by example through hard work.”
As the draft approaches, Langford remains grounded despite the growing buzz around his name.
“There’s been some talk about me moving up in the rankings, but I try to stay level-headed and not focus on the media too much,” he said. “I see things here and there, but I’m just focusing on my strengths and staying true to who I am.”
When he’s not thinking about footy, Langford enjoys spending time by the beach with family and friends, going for a surf, or playing a round of golf.
With his relentless work ethic and leadership skills, Langford is set to make an immediate impact at the AFL level, wherever he lands on draft night.
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