“I was with Mum and Dad and my brother,” Giles said. “I was pretty nervous when it came to the second round and then the third round, and then it got to about 35 and I started to wonder whether my name would get called out.
“Luckily the Blues called my name and I can’t wait to get stuck into it.”
Having boarded at a school in Adelaide since year 10, the final year student has no qualms in heading to the big smoke.
“I probably preferred to move interstate, to a new environment in Melbourne. In fact I’m very excited about it,” Giles said.
“When I’ve been to Melbourne previously for the championships I’ve really enjoyed it, so I can’t wait to get over and start my new career.”
Giles had only just got off the telephone to Michael Malthouse, whom he said had warmly welcomed him to the Carlton fraternity.
All being well, he expects to front up at Visy Park as early as Monday, to ready for the next exciting phase of his young life.
A member of Woodville-West Torrens’ Under 18 Premiership outfit of 2013, Giles modestly believed he made a real impression on Grand Final day.
“I think I was adjudged second-best on ground, playing a different role off half-back/wing,” he said. “That was my role for the game, it was a bit different, but I got a fair bit of the ball and it was a good day for myself and the club.”
By rights, Giles considers himself an attacking, rebounding key position defender with the capacity to play a lock-down role on key forwards.
A lifelong Geelong supporter, Giles’ connection with the Cattery in part stemmed from his aunt’s association with the former Geelong captain and Premiership player John Yeates.
Not any more.
“I’m definitely a Carlton man now,” Giles hastened to add.
“Obviously with the great history that Carlton has I’m really excited to be a part of it. I can’t wait to get stuck into it, hopefully forge a career and stay at Carlton for all of it.”
