Hamilton won the 2km time-trial with a sensational time of five minutes and 48 seconds - 10 seconds clear of second-placed Hamish Sinnott.

They were the only two players to run inside the six minute and 15 seconds mark.

Hamilton's time is the second fastest in AFL Draft Combine history.

The only time better was a record-breaking run last year of five minutes and 28 seconds by Brisbane Lions draftee Harry Sharp, who was a former national steeplechase runner.

The previous record was five minutes and 50 seconds by Collingwood draftee Jay Rantall.

Hamilton, an AFL Academy member, has long been regarded as a potential draftee. The Bendigo Pioneers midfielder/half-back played limited matches in 2021, but his time-trial time proved he's worked hard off the field to improve his skills.

"It just showed the amount of work Cooper had done to prepare,'' O'Bree said.

"Running ability is not the only reason players get drafted, but it is an exceptional quality.

"In the AFL system, if you've got that element of speed endurance, it's a fair quality to have for the rigours of the game and gives (clubs) confidence. A lot of kids can play footy, but can they take it to another level? Cooper has shown that he can do that."

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O'Bree said Hamilton's work ethic and drive to make himself better was an inspiration to young Pioneers squad members.

"Cooper is one of those characters that would help develop someone else,'' O'Bree said.

"He's a very approachable kid and, if someone did approach him, he'd be all for it."

Meanwhile, former Maryborough junior Kai Lohmann finished third in the 20m sprint at the Draft Combine.

Lohmann, who plays for Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the NAB League, ran a slick time of 2.986 seconds.

The AFL National Draft will be held on November 24-25, with the Rookie Draft to be held on November 26.

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