Apprentice electrician and new Crow Paul Hunter says he never gave up on his AFL dream despite being overlooked in the past two National Drafts.
Hunter, Adelaide’s first selection in Friday’s Rookie Draft, moved from Warner’s Bay in New South Wales to Queensland at the end of 2011 to further his football career and chase his AFL aspirations.
The 200cm and 96kg ruckman developed into one of the most impressive and consistent players in the NEAFL. Hunter produced a stellar 2014 campaign for the Redland Bombers, which saw him named the NEAFL Rising Star and lead ruckman in the League’s Team of the Year. He also played in a State Game against Tasmania.
Hunter carried his solid form into 2015. He played 15 games, averaging 21 hit-outs, 10 possessions and four tackles a game along with eight goals for the season.
Despite his efforts, he failed to find an AFL home at both National meets. But Hunter said he never lost his spark and held out hope Adelaide would come calling in the Rookie Draft.
“I knew Adelaide only had the two early picks at the National Draft and I wasn’t really in that mix,” he said.
“I was pretty realistic that the Rookie Draft was more likely going to be my day. Adelaide was the Club I spoke with the most, so I had a bit of an inkling. But you never have any guarantees.
“If it didn’t happen I would’ve been pretty devastated. I was kind of preparing myself for both scenarios!”
Rookie Draft profile: Paul Hunter
The 22-year-old said he was on the job cutting cables when he received the ‘overwhelming’ news that he was on an AFL list.
“I set an alarm in my phone and put the tools down to follow the draft on my mobile,” Hunter said.
“Before I knew it, it was five or six picks in so I refreshed my phone and Adelaide’s pick was next. The next three picks came up and my name was at the top.
“There were a few tears flowing. It’s a very special day. I’m still a bit overwhelmed, but I can’t wait to get into training with everyone.
“It’s one of the best days of my life.”
Hunter isn’t your typical ruckman.
The best and fairest winner from Redland Football Club has great athleticism and endurance, having run a 14.9 beep test at last month’s NEAFL State Combine and posting midfielder-like time trial numbers.
The strong-marking tall, who idolised Brisbane Lions champion Jonathan Brown growing up, also relishes the physical side of the sport.
“I love to use my big frame in close,” Hunter said.
“I pride myself on that competitiveness around the ball. I love to scrap and tackle and throw my weight around.
“But my running is definitely another one of my strengths. You can’t be too one-dimensional in the game these days.”
Hunter met with Crows coach Don Pyke and members of the Club’s recruiting staff last week leading into draft week. He admits he has plenty of work to do to become an AFL-standard player, but is more than willing to dedicate himself to the cause.
“I’m still am a bit raw with my footy, but I think I’ve got the right attitude and that should hold me in good stead,” he said.
“I just can’t wait to get started.”
