AFL draft: North Melbourne’s Eddie Ford explains benefit of local footy

Eddie Ford was just 15 when he put his hand up to play senior footy. Now he’s looking forward to playing for North Melbourne.

Eddie Ford is pumped to be at North Melbourne after a nervous wait. Picture: Getty Images

The second tier of the Western Region Football League is a long way from the heavily-scrutinised AFL environment.

But for Eddie Ford, his experiences at Yarraville-Seddon are set to provide invaluable lessons as he embarks on his journey at the elite level.

As a 15-year-old early in 2018, Ford put his hand up senior football for the Eagles in Division 2.

On the back of an outstanding pre-season, he managed 13 games, four mentions in the best and a top-10 finish in the best-and-fairest as he performed a role as a wingman/forward with aplomb for a team which completed an undefeated home-and-away campaign before a shock grand final defeat.

Ford, who was snapped up by North Melbourne at pick No.56 in Wednesday’s national draft, is hopeful that year of crash-and-bash against men will hold him in good stead.

Unbelievable news!! Eddie Ford has been drafted by the kangaroos. The Whole Eagles family is super proud of you Eddie!!

Posted by Yarraville Seddon Eagles on Wednesday, December 9, 2020

“I’m kind of used to it now,” Ford told Leader Local Footy as he was on his way to Arden St on Thursday.

“I believe I’m pretty strong in the contest anyway.

“I can’t wait to get started. It’s definitely going to test me, but I think I’ll be up for it.

“A pre-season in the gym and running will help me out as well.”

Ford lauded the influence of former Yarraville-Seddon coach Vinnie Turcinovich.

The current Braybrook mentor, who has held positions with VFL clubs Port Melbourne and Williamstown, rates Ford the best junior he has seen.

“He’s just an awesome guy and a great coach,” Ford said.

“He was the one who allowed me to play senior footy, so thanks to Vinnie.”

Ford’s father Nick has also been a key figure in his rise to the AFL ranks.

“He was just as nervous as me on draft night,” Ford said.

Eddie Ford in action for Western Jets in the NAB League. Picture: James Ross

Father and son were forced to endure a long wait.

The Western Jets star was touted as a second-round selection.

Instead Ford had his name called out about four hours after Jamarra Ugle-Hagan was crowned the No.1 pick.

But while the drawn-out event attracted its fair share of criticism, Ford never contemplated going to bed before all selections were done.

He maintained faith a glimmer of hope remained until the final pick.

Ultimately, he was the third-last player selected, saving him from unbearable uncertainty ahead of Thursday’s pre-season and rookie drafts.

“I’m very pleased with the outcome,” Ford said.

“I think North Melbourne is a great club.

“In the end, it doesn’t matter where I go – No.56 or No.1 – it’s a pleasure to be on a list and I can’t wait to get started.

“A lot of North players have been texting me. They’ve been really supportive getting around them.

“A lot of coaches and different sorts of people I never knew existed to be honest have been in contact.

“Then a fair few family and mates have been sending me messages congratulating me.

“I’m really honoured and humbled by the opportunity.”

Ford said North Melbourne was club with “great history”.

The Kangaroos have experienced an off-season of change which could bring opportunity for their draftees, with several players exiting and David Noble taking over as coach.

“Hopefully with my playing style and my abilities, I can get a game,” Ford said.

“But if that’s not the case, whatever’s best for the team and what coach David Noble needs, I’ll do.”

Ford was set for a shift into the midfield this year before the NAB League season was canned.

He produced an impressive season for the Jets as a half-forward in 2019, voted the club’s best under-age player after averaging 14 disposals and almost four marks from 16 games.

Ford is also fond of the big stage, starring on the MCG in the under-17 All Stars game before the 2019 AFL decider between Richmond and GWS Giants.

Locking horns with the best players across the nation in his age group, Ford racked up 20 possessions and booted two goals to be among the leading performers on the ground.

Standing 188cm, Ford is blessed with aerial ability and recorded the equal best running vertical jump (94cm) at last month’s state combine.

Jets talent manager Luke Williams said “the term X-factor is pretty prominent with Eddie”.

“He tested the best at the Vic combine for his vertical leap, so that height combined with his leap makes him a real tough match up for defenders,” he said.

“He’s very good above his head, has some great goal sense and is quite creative with his hands as well.”

Ford also sourced footage of the likes of Fremantle skipper and dual Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe and West Coast star Elliot Yeo to ensure 2020 didn’t go to waste.

He said he was “well and truly” ready for the hard labour ahead.

“It’s a great opportunity for anyone who can get to this stage,” Ford said.

“If you get this opportunity, you’ve got to take it on and put your best foot forward and work very hard to stay there.”

A St Kilda supporter, Ford admitted he may have to switch allegiances after landing at the Kangaroos.