Exciting GIANTS small forward Ian 'Bobby' Hill doesn't have to look far for inspiration as he begins his career – his family tree is littered with current and former AFL stars.
Fremantle brothers Stephen and Bradley Hill, former Collingwood forward Leon Davis and Western Bulldog and West Coast goal sneak Josh Hill are cousins of the West Australian, with Bradley Hill a particularly close ally of the new GIANT.
While each of that quartet has an impressive footy resume, the family's latest draftee prefers to use one of his cousins' former teammates to give him a spark before he takes to the field on game day.
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Hill, who is a lightning quick, lightly-framed goalkicker with a more than handy defensive side to his game, told AFL.com.au his hero is retired Hawthorn great Cyril Rioli.
"I've always watched Cyril, his highlight reels are amazing," he said with a big grin.
"I watch them a couple of days before a game and try and have that impact with my performances.
"If you go onto YouTube and type in Cyril Rioli highlights, there's millions of them to choose from.
"I'm only little but I like putting a lot of forward pressure on the opposition, then using my skills and pace to zigzag and turn my opponents inside out."
Ian's bond with Bradley came in handy in preparing him for the move to Sydney in November, with his older cousin's experience invaluable in negotiating the cross-country trip away from his family and friends.
Bradley Hill spent five seasons with the Hawks – winning three premierships - before he moved back to Perth to play with the Dockers at the end of 2016.
"He just told me it's all worth it in the end when you get drafted, even if you have to move interstate … just embrace everything, so that’s what I'm doing," Hill said.
"He said, 'If you get a chance to get out there, just show everyone what you can do and why you got drafted'.
"I just have to take it step by step and learn as much as I can and work hard.
"That will make me a better footy player and a better person."
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Hill will wear 37 – the number made famous by indigenous great Adam Goodes at the Swans – at the GIANTS this year after it was vacated by ruckman Rory Lobb, who was traded to Fremantle at the end of last season.
The number is no burden for Hill, who is more concerned with the future he wants to create at the GIANTS, rather than who has gone before him.
"Hopefully I can make it my own and build my own legacy," he said.
