Arie Schoenmaker is a Saint (Image: AFL)
The highly-rated Arie Schoenmaker had all but given up on his AFL dream. Then, St Kilda came knocking.
After being touted to go in the top 30 selections, Schoenmaker plummeted down the draft order to Pick 62.
When his name was called out, it was pure elation.
“I was just out there with my mum having a bit of a hug,” he said.
“I thought I was just about done then but really thankful.
“The emotions are pretty high, I don’t know how to feel.”
One of Schoenmaker’s main attributes is his thumping left foot, similar to Port Adelaide’s Trent McKenzie. He had also featured in Fox Footy’s longest kick competition on AFL Grand Final day.
“Ever since I started kicking the ball with dad in the paddock it’s always been a thing and something I’ve tried to work on and make it my one wood,” he said.
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Schoenmaker averaged 27 disposals and six intercept possessions in the Coates Talent League playing for the Tasmanian Devils.
After worrying about yesterdays selections, hopes were high for todays. Now the focus is what he can produce on the big stage.
“The emotions are pretty high, I don’t know how to feel,” he said.
“I was a bit nervous, but to get the moment now I’m really excited to get going for next year.”
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