19-year-old rookie, James Toohey, has already set his sights high as he plans to shape his defensive craft to that of All-Australian defender, Harry Taylor.

“I’d love to play like Harry Taylor,” Toohey from Oakleigh Chargers said.

“Just the way he can mark and spoil is very impressive.

“If I can learn as much off him as I can, that would be an incredible experience.”

Having missed out on the last two national drafts, Toohey, who started as a forward before he headed to the backline this year, was in shock when he heard his name called out in this year’s rookie draft.

“I knew I wasn’t really a great chance for the national draft. Obviously I had a few mates at Oakleigh who played for Vic Metro and didn’t get picked up, so I wasn’t too disappointed (that I was also overlooked),” Toohey said.

Again Geelong recruiter, Stephen Wells, made sure his thoughts on the rookie draft were kept very quiet, which only increased Toohey’s state of shock and excitement when his name came up at pick 15.

“With the rookie draft, I got a call from North Melbourne and Richmond a couple of days before and didn’t hear from Geelong and was shocked when it happened,” Toohey explained.

The young defender is not only excited to kick start his dream of joining an AFL club, but having the opportunity to learn from some of the best players in the league.

“I’m absolutely over the moon - I couldn’t believe it. Geelong’s one of the most respected clubs in the league,” Toohey said.