TOM McDONALDBORN: September 18, 1992LIVES: EdenhopeSCHOOL: Edenhope College and St Patrick's CollegeBARRACKS FOR: Geelong2010 TAC CUP GAMES: 17. Total: 27Attended AFL state combine and represented Vic Country at AFL under-18 national championshipsCOMMITMENT to the game is what first impresses recruiters most about Tom McDonald.The Rebels' tall forward would travel from his home in Edenhope in far western Victoria every Thursday night to train at Eureka Stadium, a trip taking about 3 1/2 hours. And he would do it again for match days.McDonald took the plunge to board at St Patrick's College for year 12 and said it was the best decision he has made."Travelling just made everything tough. This year I was still able to do my school work and find more of a balance," McDonald said."I could go to training twice a week and play school footy, so I was exposed to a high level game all the time."McDonald has only just started to feel nerves ahead of the draft.His mind has been preoccupied with study — he sat his last year 12 exam on Friday — and graduation plans.The 194cm tall says he would just be happy to play football anywhere."I'd actually love going interstate. I love exploring new areas and towns, just like I did to board in Ballarat," McDonald said.He travelled home on Saturday and plans to take in the draft with a few mates in Edenhope.PHIL PARTINGTON (Rebels regional manager) SAYS: "Tom's come along in leaps and bounds since he moved to Ballarat and St Patrick's College. He has a terrific leap and endurance."
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