Lachlan Tiziani finds himself in a unique position as he enters the AFL national draft for the second year in a row.
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The former Broken Hill junior moved to Albury at the age of 17 and was immediately thrown into the Murray Bushrangers system.
Tiziani admitted he was “devastated” to miss out last year and is anxiously awaiting a second chance in the 2016 draft.
“I’m pretty nervous and excited at the same time, I’m just trying to waste some time and make the days go quicker,” Tiziani said.
“Obviously my name didn’t get called out last year, but I’m a bit calmer this time around.
“I was devastated when I missed out last year, but I took it on the chin and wanted to come back out this year and prove them wrong.
“I think I’m a better shot this year than I was last year.”
Tiziani has heard from a number of clubs in the lead-up, but has been keeping his cards close to his chest.
“There are a few (Bushrangers) that are a chance to get either national or rookie drafted and it proves how good the area is for producing good talent,” he said.
“I’ll just wait and see if my name gets called out on Friday or Monday.”
Tiziani was used off the half-back flank during 2015, but moved back to his regular position as a half-forward rotating through the midfield this season with impressive results.
The 19-year-old booted 40 goals in 18 appearances for the Bushrangers, including two hauls of six throughout the 2016 season.
He said having the opportunity to play in the TAC Cup grand final was a great experience.
“We obviously didn’t get the win, but playing at Etihad Stadium with your good mates and people you’ll know forever was a highlight,” Tiziani said.
Tiziani admitted he wouldn’t be in the position he is in if he didn’t move to Albury and play with the Bushrangers..
“The move definitely helped my footy out. You don’t get the exposure you do here in Broken Hill,” he said.
A quiet night is planned for the Tiziani household as they watch the draft unfold.
“My parents and my sister have been my biggest support and I’ve got a good a bunch of blokes I played Bushies with and good mates in Albury,” Tiziani said.
“I’ve been getting a few message from back in Broken Hill, so it’s been very good support in the lead-up.”
Tiziani will wait until the draft has been conducted before he decides on where he will be playing in 2017.
