AFL Draft 2021: Josh Rachele opens up on Shepparton Swans’ connections
While Josh Rachele is tipped to be picked in the top 10 in the AFL Draft he isn’t forgetting where his football journey began — Shepparton Swans.
Goulburn Valley
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On the eve of coming to realise his AFL dream, Shepparton’s Josh Rachele isn’t getting ahead of himself.
Touted as a top 10 selection in Wednesday’s night draft, the 18-year-old is quick to pay tribute to where it all started — Shepparton Swans.
Speaking to The Goulburn Valley News, Rachele recalled watching his father play footy in the red and white before starting to play the game he loved when he was about seven.
Before that he followed the traditional path many young Australians do learning the basic skills at Auskick.
“Shepp Swans is a big club for our family,” he said.
“My grandfather player there before dad then my brothers and cousins have played at some point in time.”
Rachele made his senior debut for the Goulburn Valley league club in a loss to Rochester alongside his cousin in 2019.
He was named in the best and would play one more senior game in 2021 where he also impressed.
“It was great to have that experience at such a young age,” he said.
“Playing against men gave me an insight of what I was going to be up against if I did want to chase my AFL dream.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without the Swans.
“Maybe when I’m older I’ll be able to come back and play a few games.”
Rachele’s talent at local level put him on the radar of NAB League club, the Murray Bushrangers.
He entered the program at 15 and quickly developed a strong relationship with coach Mark Brown.
“He’s been amazing for my development,” Rachele said.
“Browny has always made time for me if I wanted to catch up — whether it was to rewatch some vision or have a chat about how I was going.
“The way he treats us as players highlights how supportive the Bushrangers program is.
“It’s been a huge part of my life for the last few years and I hope I can get back there to support the younger guys when I get the chance.”
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