It is exciting, but it can also be daunting – especially when a move interstate is involved.

As a national game though, moving a long way from home goes with the territory.

South Australian teenager Caleb Daniel could hardly have expected a smoother transition in his move to the Western Bulldogs.

“The players and everyone at the club have been really welcoming,” he said, after arriving in Ballarat on Wed-

nesday for the first day of the Bulldogs’ two-day community camp.

Daniel, 18, said the Bull-

dogs’ largely young list had also helped him settle in.

Coming from South Adel-

aide in the SANFL, the 167cm Daniel was selected with pick 46 in last year’s national draft.

He was a stand-out player in the national under-18 champ-

ionships last year, with his carnival highlighted by a best-on-ground performance against Vic Country with 27 touches, eight tackles and three goals.

Daniel also made his mark in 11 SANFL senior games for South Adelaide.

As well as becoming accustomed to new surroundings in Melbourne, adjusting to full-time football had been a major challenge for Daniel.

“It’s a big difference to training three nights (a week) ... backing (it) up day-to-day.”

Daniel said it was as much a mental challenge as it was a physical one.

The teenager said he was thriving under new coach Luke Beveridge and new captain Bob Murphy.

Daniel said Beveridge was very approachable.

“He’s open, he’s always available. He’s like a mate.”

Daniel said he did not have any specific goals for the year.

“I’d like to debut. As long as a I can play consistently,” he said.

david.brehaut@fairfaxmedia.com.au