MURRAY Bushrangers defender Ben Paton said he “couldn’t have asked for a better result” after being drafted by St Kilda.
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Paton attracted the attention of the Saints as a 19-year-old in the TAC Cup with the club swooping on the youngster with pick 46.
“I was a bit lost for words,” Paton said.
“I met with St Kilda a few times and they showed some interest so it was great to get drafted by them.
“I obviously would have gone anywhere but staying in Melbourne is really good.
“It’s been a big week and I’m just relieved to get drafted.”
Paton, who started his career with Mitta United before following coach Clinton Gilson to North Albury, was a revelation in defence for the Bushrangers this season after being overlooked last year.
“It worked out really well,” he said.
“I enjoyed playing there, it probably suits my game.”
Within an hour of being drafted by St Kilda, Paton has received several text messages from Saint players.
“He’s a really good story,” Bushrangers coach Leon Higgins said.
“He could have taken several options but stayed with the Bushrangers as a 19-year-old and had a fantastic year.
“We were confident Charlie (Spargo) and Ben would get drafted and there are some more chances in the rookie draft as well.”
