After arriving at West Lakes via pick No.28 in the 2020 AFL Draft, young midfielder Sam Berry moved in with senior leader Matt Crouch for his first fortnight in South Australia.

Berry described the experience as unreal, admitting he took a lot away from shadowing the All Australian and Club Champion midfielder.

“To see the habits that make him so elite was really cool,” Berry told AFC Media.

The 18-year-old also observed Crouch’s passion for a specific beverage.

“His addiction with sparkling water was interesting,” Berry said.

“I guess instead of the average Joe drinking a soft drink or something…”

Berry said he has taken a lot from the likes of Crouch and Rory Sloane, who he has been regularly matched up with at training drills.

“Every time you’re there, you just learn so much from someone like Sloaney,” Berry said.

“There’s a lot of other players as well, you can understand why they are so elite.”

Berry has felt comfortable in Adelaide since day one, settling in with the support of his family and friends back home, as well as his new teammates.

Hailing from Maffra in the heart of Victoria’s Gippsland region, he is also enjoying the lifestyle perks of his new hometown.

“They’ve definitely helped me a lot and made me feel at home here.

“I love the beach area here, very pleasant. A lot of good cafes too, so that’s probably been the highlight so far.”