The 19-year-old missed out in last year's AFL draft, and was set to divide his time between the Northern Knights and North Melbourne's VFL team this year before coronavirus put paid to those plans.

But he said Hawthorn great Ayres' strong track record in helping young players take the next step convinced him it was the best option to kickstart his career.

Delahunty accepted an offer to train with Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong this season after the Hoppers opted not to compete, and played reserves before his form forced the Lions to pick him for their preliminary final defeat to Leeton-Whitton.

"He (Aysres) has been able to coach a few players into the AFL system. He said he sees potential in me and thinks he can take my game to the level I've probably struggled to get to the last couple of years," Delahunty.

"I've probably played at a similar level (the past couple of years) and that's probably why I missed the draft, I probably didn't go to that next level.

"I'm hoping a new league and new coach will help me find something extra in my game."

Delahunty would have missed the start of the 2020 season after undergoing a knee reconstruction, and feels his body is now better placed to make an immediate impression in the new-look league featuring teams all across the east coast.

"I'd say I do (feel more confident). I've got the chance to get it right and get a bit stronger and fitter," he said.

"There's going to be a lot of unseen talent running around I think, young guys and 20 year olds that missed out on their overage year like myself.

"There will probably some guys who were in the NEAFL that get a chance to play down in Melbourne, it should be a bigger pool of talent.

"This year was a little bit frustrating but a lot of other people are in the same boat, so you can't dwell on it too much."

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