Ely Smith (Brisbane, pick 21), James Jordon (Melbourne, pick 33) and Finn O’Dwyer (Carlton, pick 66) grew up metres apart and will all live out their football dreams.

It’s been a whirlwind week for Smith who was asked by AFL national talent manager Kevin Sheehan whilst holidaying in Thailand to attend the first round of selections on Thursday night.

From there he was snared by the Lions with the second last pick of the night.

“It was awesome, an unreal feeling,” Smith said.

“It still feels a bit surreal, but it’s starting to sink in a little bit now.

“I was told it was 50-50, but I wasn’t really sure.

“I thought I’d have to wait until today (Friday), but luckily I didn’t.

“It was a little bit of a surprise to be called out, but it was really good.”

“It means everything to me, all the years of hard work have come together and I finally got there in the end.”

But as he watched on during Friday’s second round, the news got even better.

“It was great to see James and Finn get picked up, they both live on the same street as me too,” Smith said.

Smith meets with club officials today and will likely start training on Tuesday.

Jordon’s journey is one of sheer resilience. 

The 17-year-old missed selection for Murray Bushrangers’ under-16s squad and was cut by Sandringham Dragons earlier this year, before getting a second chance with Oakleigh Chargers.

He grew up supporting Sydney after his cousin Adam Prior was drafted to the Swans in the 2005 rookie draft, but will begin his own journey with Melbourne.

Jordan had no idea he was being picked up.

“It's a dream come true, you always thought of it as a kid, growing up with a footy in your hand, you see people running around at the top level and think to yourself that's what I want to do,” he said.

“I'm absolutely stoked that Melbourne Football Club has given me the opportunity, I can't wait to get started.

“I guess you get setbacks, but you become more motivated to try and prove them wrong.

“I think it motivates you more than anything.”

Jordon said it was massive to have three juniors drafted from the Pigeons.

“It's such a good club and such good people around it as well,” he added.

“They've been awesome to me with (coaches) Damian Sexton and Ross Mulquiney.”

Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin phoned to congratulate him before he meets his teammates on Monday.