Tell us about the first 48 hours after being drafted by the Crows …
“It was definitely a massive shock. I wasn’t expecting anything from the National Draft, I was a bit more nervous about the Rookie Draft. I was speechless when I heard my name read out and then my phone went crazy with text messages from family, friends and some of the players.”
How did you feel when Phil Walsh flew over to visit you at home?
“I spent the whole morning cleaning the house to make a good first impression with him. We had a good chat, and he’s a nice, friendly bloke despite the how intense he seems out on the training track. I was pretty keen to get stuck into training after meeting him.”
How was the flight over to Adelaide and what was it like meeting Rory Sloane and his partner Belinda when you arrived at the airport?
The trip over was really good. I was so keen to get over. When we landed I got pretty nervous, but as soon as I met with Rory and Belinda at the airport I started to relax a little bit. They are very nice people.
What is it like living with Rory and Belinda at the moment?
They are such a nice couple. They’re both really good cooks, lovely people and just really good company. They’ve made the move over very easy for me.
How did you go in the first team meeting?
I got stitched up in the first team meeting. Charlie Cameron showed me to my seat and I found out later that it was actually Tex’s seat, so I moved straight away. That was a bit scary. But it was a good experience.
What was it like getting your jumper and your locker number?
It was crazy. To be on an AFL list and to get a number has been something that I’ve been dreaming of since I was a young boy. It was a surreal moment.
How was your first training session?
I was pretty nervous so I think I was a bit sloppy. I reckon I was thinking about it all a bit too much, so I probably didn’t start too well, but I’m starting to settle into things a bit more now.
What’s been the biggest learning curve for you since joining the Club?
The training, definitely. It’s non-stop and there aren’t many breaks so you’re constantly on the run. It’s very tough compared to what I’ve been used to in the past.
Have you got a nickname yet?
Yeah I’ve picked up a few. Tex calls me ‘Big O’ and Development Coach Tate Kaesler calls me ‘Rein’. I think that’s about it.
Which players have you gelled with already?
I get along with all the other draftees quite well. We went out for dinner the other week and we all gel together really well. They’re a good group of friends.
What’s been your average bed time after a full day of training?
I normally have a nap when I get home and then have dinner. I’m a 10.30 man now, but I’m definitely sleeping more than usual.
Your first impressions of Phil?
He’s a good bloke, but he is a bit scary though.
How much have you been helping around the house with Rory and Belinda?
I’ve been helping whenever they let me! They don’t even let me clean up or anything. I probably have to be a bit more assertive and say ‘No, I’m doing the dishes!’ so they let me do it. But I throw the ball around to Mica and Marley a bit.
