TEMORA footballer Jake Barrett cannot wait to get to work at his new home at Brisbane Lions.
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Barrett has been given the opportunity to resurrect his AFL career after the Lions picked up the 21-year-old with pick two in Monday’s rookie draft.
Barrett was on the lookout for greater opportunities after three years at Greater Western Sydney (GWS) and it was the Lions who proved keenest to get the speedster on board.
Barrett made the 13-hour drive from Temora to Brisbane on Sunday but was still thrilled to see the move become official.
“I’m over the moon, looking forward to that second opportunity,” Barrett said.
“I’m obviously really excited and I can’t wait to get into it and meet the boys.
“It’s a new chapter.”
After dominating at NEAFL level for the Giants, Barrett attracted plenty of interest from AFL clubs.
The Lions finished 17th last season but Barrett did not hesitate in joining Brisbane.
“There was a bit of interest from a few clubs but after meeting Brisbane, I was very keen to get up here,” he said.
“I’m keen to knuckle down and train hard and hopefully good things come and I get the opportunity to play a few games.”
Barrett managed just the one AFL game at the Giants but was named emergency several times.
Barrett says he is in a lot better position this time, heading to his second AFL club.
“Having already been at a club for three years, done three pre-seasons, I know what to expect,” he said.
Barrett will begin training with the Lions on Tuesday.