OSBORNE junior Dean Terlich admits he was “relieved” when his name was called out by Melbourne at Thursday night’s AFL draft on the Gold Coast.
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Terlich’s selection, with pick 68, is a second chance at landing an AFL career.
The 22-year-old was playing with the Cats in the Hume League when he was drafted to Sydney as a rookie in 2008 but his association with the Swans only lasted one season.
He was delisted and joined SANFL club Norwood where he has played the past four seasons.
He enjoyed a standout 2012 season for the Redlegs and was named best on ground in the SANFL grand final, collecting 31 possessions during the game.
It was this performance that enticed the Demons to request an interview with Terlich and ultimately reignite his AFL dream.
Terlich was at home in South Australia letting the news sink in yesterday but took time out to explain to The Daily Advertiser how it felt when his name was called out.
“I was stoked, over the moon,” Terlich said.
“I was in a bit of shock at first, then I just felt relief.
“I’d had a couple of interviews with (Melbourne) so I knew they were interested, but there are no guarantees with the draft.
“Luckily it all worked out.
“Melbourne has a good young system and I think it will be a good team in the near future.”
Terlich was straight on the phone to parents Garry and Helen in Henty on Thursday night and said the entire family, as well as the Osborne and Henty communities, were thrilled with his selection.
Osborne president Jason Gooden yesterday congratulated Terlich on behalf of the club.
“It’s great news for Dean and a great achievement for one of our junior footballers and a guy that won premierships here,” Gooden said.