With the GIANTS’ first pick coming at number 11 in Friday night’s NAB AFL Draft, the only other GIANT selected with pick 11 - Toby Greene - has shared some words of wisdom that will help one of our newest GIANTS settle into life as an AFL footballer.
1. Be ready for pre-season! It was definitely an eye opener for me in the early weeks. I barley had the energy to stay awake past dinner in my first few weeks at the GIANTS. Your first pre-season will be the toughest one.
2. Take note of how Aidan “Apples” Corr and Josh “Chook” Kelly talk to Head Coach Leon Cameron. Pay close attention and learn from this as it will help you get a game next year.
3. Learn how to put sheets on your bed before you leave home. This was one of my biggest challenges when I moved away from home. It was something I had never really considered before I made the move. Have a chat to mum or dad, I’m sure they’ll have a few tips.
4. Listen to the club dietitian and learn how to cook. If you want a cracking rig and to impress on the track you have to listen to Jess Spendlove our dietitian. She’ll give you some pointers on what’s good for you and will teach you some great recipes.
5. Failing that, just go to Satrialie’s Sandwich Deli and tell them Toby sent you. They’ll look after you.
6. There’s a guy who wears the number four jumper at the club. Carry his boots and buy him a coffee when he asks and you’ll get along with him just fine.
7. Enjoy draft night. You might not be on the stage in the top ten picks but it’s recognition for all the hard work you put in during junior footy. It’s also a great night for your family and friends who no doubt helped massively during your footy journey.
8. Get to know the latest Ikea catalogue and work on your Allen Key skills. If you’re moving in with teammates or settling in at Breakfast Point, one of the first things you’ll do is put your bedroom furniture together.
9. Force yourself to get out and about. Sydney’s not the most glamourous city in Australia for no reason. And soak up what Canberra has to offer too. There’s good reason why Lonely Planet ranked it as the third best city in the world.
10. Do something outside of football. While your life is packed with playing and training for football it’s important to have interests outside of the game. Studying or taking courses are a great way to meet people and also prepare yourself for life after footy.
11. Need help with something academic? Ask Phil Davis and Matt de Boer a question and see who answers it first. The winner will be your go to guy for the next ten years whenever you need an academic problem solved.
The 2017 NAB AFL Draft will be held in Sydney on Friday, November 24 with full coverage on gwsgiants.com.au.
