Jason Carter is one step closer to becoming Wyndham’s first AFL export after he was nominated as Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy pick ahead of Thursday’s AFL National Draft.

The Dockers, who signed Carter to their development program three years ago as part of their Kimberley zone, have first access to the 18-year-old in the draft as part of NGA rules.

The silky on-baller burst onto the scene when was named All-Australian after a brilliant 2016 AFL Under-16 Championship which included a spectacular running goal from defence against South Australia when he bounced the ball four times.

He progressed through Claremont’s under-age development squads and played two colts matches last year around school footy commitments before a complicated grade-two tear behind his knee ended his season.

Camera Icon Jason Carter is one step closer to joining the Dockers. Credit: Daniel Wilkins

Don't miss the latest sports news! Was $13 now $7 per week for 12 weeks* (Digital + Print) Enjoy unlimited access to thewest.com.au and everyday digital editions on any device. Thursday - Monday papers home delivered with all of the latest footy news! *T&Cs apply

The Dockers then applied for Carter to be transferred to Peel Thunder in a bid to oversee his development.

It was another frustrating period on the injury front this year, with an elbow hyper-extension in the opening round of the WAFL colts season causing Carter plenty of grief.

It happened again in WA’s first game at the national under-18 championships, tearing his elbow ligaments three-quarters off the bone.

With the help of an elbow brace, Carter bounced back to finish the season strongly and says he’s 100 per cent injury-free heading into the draft.

Carter’s best mate, Swan Districts livewire Jarrod Cameron, was nominated as West Coast’s Next Generation Academy pick, as flagged by the Eagles earlier this month.

Irving Mosquito looks set to join fellow Halls Creek talents Sam Petrevski-Seton (Carlton), Cedric Cox (Brisbane Lions) and Shane McAdam (Adelaide) in the AFL after he was nominated by Hawthorn.