JARROD Berry’s AFL draft dream came true in Sydney on Friday night, when the 18-year-old was selected by the Brisbane Lions at pick 17.
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Berry will join North Ballarat teammate Hugh McCluggage, who was chosen by the Lions at pick three, at the Queensland club.
Former Harrow-Balmoral player Michael Close is also on Brisbane’s list.
Berry was tipped as a first round draft pick after two impressive standout seasons with the North Ballarat Rebels in the TAC Cup.
Berry’s 2015 form saw him win All-Australian selection but injury setbacks saw his 2016 season interrupted on multiple occasions.
But he impressed many at the NAB AFL draft combine as the top performer from the 80 footballers in attendance, showing his trademark toughness and resilience.
While Berry is now headed across the border, his junior days at Horsham Saints will not quickly be forgotten.
Horsham Saints football director Anothony Woodhead said Berry had always had what it takes to make it in the big time.
“It is a real credit to the kid,” he said.
“He has always had the dedication and the desire to achieve.
“From a club perspective we are rapt, but he did all the work to get there.”
No doubt he will give it all he has got.
- Anthony Woodhead
Woodhead said the club would keep a close watch over Berry.
“We are totally proud,” he said.
“We all certainly thought he was going to go in the top 20.
“The move is a big change for him in his life, but his desire to achieve the ultimate goal has paid off.
“He is following his career as Darcy Tucker did.”
Woodhead said the club was pleased to have produced two future AFL stars, two years in succession.
“We have had some great coaches in the junior program, which has paid off,” he said.
“We spend time putting the right people in place and we are starting to see the rewards pay off.
“We nurture players and then let them move on.
“We have players who are prepared to do the hard work and have good grounding and supportive parents to help them get there.”
Woodhead said Berry was incredibly deserving of his success.
“He has had a few ups and downs throughout his life as we all know,” he said.
“To have overcome those and reached his goal is amazing.
“He is of the highest calibre, is level-headed and has a good attitude.
“No doubt he will give it all he has got.”
