AFL draft: Cody Hirst hoping for second listing

Lilydale junior Cody Hirst realised his AFL dream when he was selected by Sydney in the mid-season draft, but is now hoping for a second listing in six months after his delisting.

Cody Hirst in a game for Eastern Ranges. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Eastern Ranges product Cody Hirst is in the unique position of hoping to be drafted twice in the same year after enduring a rollercoaster of emotions in 2019.

Hirst, 19, was selected by the Sydney Swans in the mid-year draft after starting the year in the NAB League, describing the AFL listing as a “dream come true”.

But he was left devastated when told he would be delisted after just six months in the Harbour City.

The Lilydale junior is now hoping for a second opportunity in this week’s AFL draft after making 12 NEAFL appearances for the Swans.

Cody Hirst was selected in the mid-season draft. Picture: Quinn Rooney/AFL Media/Getty Images

Hirst said he was speechless when informed by Sydney coach John Longmire that he would be cut.

“He came in and broke the news to me,” Hirst said.

“I didn’t really see it coming — I thought I’d done enough.

“I was pretty upset but that’s just how the game is.

“I was devastated but I quickly came to terms with it and moved on and I made some great friends, who I’ve still been talking to.”

Hirst signed a six-month contract when he was recruited in May but would have received a two-year deal had he been selected in the national draft.

He said he did not regret his AFL experience.

“I’ve always wanted to play AFL football,” he said.

“I loved every minute of it. I wouldn’t regret a thing.

“I met some amazing people and had some amazing coaches, who helped me a lot.

“It was a good experience and I have that behind me now. Hopefully I can get another opportunity at it and take it with both hands.”

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Hirst returned to Melbourne immediately following his delisting and has been training to maintain his fitness.

His future is in limbo but he is hoping to continue his AFL career in 2020.

“It’s been a rollercoaster so it would be a good experience so get another crack at it,” he said

“It’s just a waiting game.”

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Originally published as AFL draft: Cody Hirst hoping for second listing