For the majority of draftees arriving at the Gold Coast SUNS, they speak openly of their admiration for the likes of dual Brownlow medallist Gary Ablett and All Australian forward Tom Lynch.
 
However for this year’s No. 9 draft selection, Will Brodie, his footballing hero would surprise many.
 
Growing up in Shepparton in Victoria’s north, Brodie grew up watching local product Michael Barlow become a pioneer for mature-aged recruits when he was drafted by Fremantle in the 2010 Rookie Draft.

Brodie still has Barlow’s #21 Dockers guernsey on his wall and can’t wait to learn from the two-time Ross Glendinning Medallist.
 
“I’ve actually got his jersey on my wall still from when I was about 12 years old when I got him to sign it,” Brodie told SUNS TV on Saturday.
 
“He was one of my idols of mine, the reason I barracked for Fremantle growing up so pretty excited that I’ll be able to play and train with him next year.”

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The Gold Coast player development team, headed up by Michelle Mitchell, Sam Coen and Eddie Sansbury, have already identified Barlow and West Australian David Swallow as mentors for the 18-year-old.
 
Brodie is sure to be a sponge around the two experienced combative SUNS, soaking up information as he begins his footballing journey.
 
“I love the way he goes about it. His ball-winning ability and his contested stuff and his clearance work so hopefully I’ll be able to learn bits and pieces off him,” Brodie said.