“David (his Rebels coach) and myself needed to make sure Louis proved he was capable of winning his own football and playing a variety of roles,” Partington told Fairfax Media.
At regional and state level, Herbert established himself as a potent forward with the ability to kick goals from every angle.
Identifying his untapped potential, Rebels coaching staff sought constructive feedback from AFL talent scouts, investigating how the Club could increase Herbert’s draft appeal.
Under the tutelage of the Rebel’s development coaches, the Victorian Country representative player reinvented his game as a speedy half-back flanker, providing strong run and carry into his team’s attacking zones.
“David stuck by the plan all year, even though it could’ve been detrimental to results – we sure could’ve used him kicking goals up forward to help win games.
“In doing that, he enhanced Louis’ chances to be drafted.
“It was development over wins, but at the end of the day we had a win in the draft period.”
