Hawthorn player David Mirra’s wise advice to young Lachie McDonnell

Hawthorn defender David Mirra has given some sage advice to ‘gutted’ young player Lachie McDonnell, whose devastation at missing out on AFL draft selection was revealed in his candid diary this week.

Lachlan McDonnell celebrates a goal during the TAC Cup Grand Final between the Dandenong Stingrays and the Oakleigh Chargers.

Hawthorn defender David Mirra has some advice for Lachie McDonnell – “believe’’.

Mirra sent a message to McDonnell yesterday after Leader published a diary the Dandenong Stingrays premiership player wrote in the fortnight leading up to last week’s AFL drafts.

McDonnell, 18, had been interviewed by Carlton but wasn’t selected in the national and rookie drafts.

‘GUTTED’: AFL DRAFT HOPEFUL’S CANDID DIARY

“I am devastated, absolutely gutted. I don’t know what to think, to be honest,’’ he wrote.

“To be overlooked in both the national draft and the rookie draft is hard to take. So close yet so far away. It feels like a sledgehammer to the gut.’’

McDonnell attended Mazenod College, as did Mirra, who last year was drafted by Hawthorn from the Box Hill Hawks at the age of 26.

David Mirra with teammate Teia Miles at a Hawthorn training session this year.

Mirra rose from the rookie list to play seven AFL matches this year.

Mirra sent the youngster a message yesterday, saying “Mate, I’ve been there.’’

“Multiple times, too many times. I know the hurt you’re feeling right now. There are a million things I can say to you right now.

“But the only thing I will say is it’s not over until you say it’s over. I missed out in eight drafts mate and finally in the ninth was selected as a rookie….

“Own your footy and never get bitter.”

“Bitterness will hurt you. Keep challenging yourself and get the best out of yourself. Never quit even in the hardest of times. You’ll get there mate. Believe.’’

Lachlan McDonnell in action in the TAC Cup Grand Final.

McDonnell’s father, Cameron, said the family appreciated Mirra taking the time to make contact, and said it had given Lachlan a lift.

McDonnell trained with Frankston ahead of the drafts.

He is also a star volleyballer with opportunities to play in the US and Canada but he will almost certainly play in the VFL next year.

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