CFC TV: Watch Matthew Watson's reaction to be drafted to Carlton.
Carlton has named Calder Cannons centre half-back Matthew Watson with its first round selection in the NAB AFL draft (nio.18 overall).
Watson, the 18-year old who recently completed his year 12 examinations at Penleigh Essendon Grammar School, took a deep breath as he spoke exclusively to carltonfc.com.au moments after his selection by the Blues.
“It’s a bit of a relief,” Watson said. “It’s been a pretty tense ten days waiting for my name to be called and I only finished my exams last Monday.
“I’m glad that it’s all over and I’m pretty happy. It’s terrific I can stay in Melbourne too, as the club is only about five minute’s drive from my house.”
Plying his craft as a player with Calder Cannons, Watson this season earned Under 18 All-Australian selection in the wake of his showing for VicMetro during the carnival.
At 195 centimetres and 101 kg, Watson undoubtedly meets the club’s need for a big bodied centre half-back. His damaging, long left-foot kicking to position affords him even greater status.
Watson’s uncle is the 184-game former Essendon premiership ruckman Steven Alessio. His mother Manuela is Alessio’s older sister.
Alessio, now General Manager - Player Development with the AFL Players Association - was on hand at the Watson family home in Pascoe Vale south, watching the draft telecast as his nephew’s name and number - 211413 - was called by Carlton’s National Recruiting Manager Wayne Hughes.
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