WHEN the AFL released its draft dates, Hamish Sinnott took one look and knew it was going to be a big night one way or the other.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The GWV Rebels half back will turn 18 on Thursday night when the AFL conducts its second night of the draft.
Unlikely to be a first round selection, Sinnott knows if he is to get his AFL chance, it will come on his birthday, or the following night when the rookie draft is conducted.
MORE DRAFT PREVIEWS
- TOP 10: Gibcus prepares to move yet again
- INSIDE BULL: Hobbs heads the draft class of 2021
- HIS OWN MAN: Draft bolter Butler is very much his own man
Having spent much of his junior career as a midfielder or half forward, Rebels coach David Loader pushed the lightly-built youngster to half back where he thrived, particularly in the middle of the season.
He says he has traditionally modelled his game on Collingwood great Scott Pendlebury, but this year has enjoyed watching Western Bulldogs defender Bailey Dale and GWS running half back Lachie Whitfield as he has worked on his running and skill set.
He admits the nerves are starting to bite a little bit as he hopes to live out a dream he's had since he was a child watching his family on the famed Leura Oval at Camperdown.
"It's starting to kick in now, especially now the exams are done, it's not even a week away now, I'm sure there will be a few sleepless night coming," he said.
"We've been lucky we've been able to do a bit of training in Melbourne. We've been given a program from the AFL, so we've been following that bit leading up to the draft.
"I think it's been for those that went to the Combine. Our Vic. Country fitness fellas have sent it through to us, us boys were asked to do it we could."
The Sinnott name is synonymous with Camperdown. Older brother Zac plays at the club, my uncles played through the premiership era, my grand dad with there too, even my sisters and my mum are all life members.
"Camperdown is a massive family club and everyone know each other," he said.
"My goal is next year, I'll be playing at a higher level, whether it's back with the Rebels because I think I've potentially got another year there if I don't get picked up, an AFL club obviously, or a VFL club. I know Camperdown will always be a home."
The first round of the AFL draft is on Wednesday night, the second round on is on Thursday and the rookie draft is on Friday.