With the National Draft now just one day away, Eastern Ranges defender Tyreece Leiu’s excitement is growing.
Leiu grew up a North Melbourne supporter and played a game for their VFL side this past season and therefore has a “soft spot” for the royal blue and white.
However, he will not allow his fandom to get in the way of an AFL career.
The South Belgrave product revealed the teams that have shown the most interest in the pre-draft process.
“I’ve had a few clubs like Richmond, Carlton and the Hawks that seem pretty keen,” he said on SEN Drive.
Possessing a 193cm and 91kg frame, Leiu has the ideal body to be a stalwart in any AFL backline.
When asked which defenders he pays close attention to, the youngster responded with little hesitation.
“Tom Stewart is definitely the main one that I try and play like, (I’ve) been watching him for a while now,” he said.
Leiu is confident that he is ready to make the leap to the elite level and has the requisite mentality to match up on the game’s biggest names.
“I feel like I’m at the physical level and have the right mindset that I could play against AFL players,” he said.
Like any potential draftee, Leiu has a close bond with his mother and revealed that she is very hopeful her son is selected by a Victorian club.
“Mum’s pretty nervous, she’s wanting me to stay in Victoria,” he added.
For now, his mum will be waiting with the rest of us to see where her boy lands.
The AFL Draft will kick off at 7pm (AEDT) on Wednesday 24 November.