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Butcher stakes future on footy

IT’S been a long abide, but in just over a week, John Butcher’s childhood fancy will finally come true.

The Maffra teenager is all but guaranteed to be picked up by an AFL club in nearest Thursday's national draft.

"I've had a footy in my hands from the theme that I could walk, so I'm starting to get a bit nervous and excited at the same time," Butcher said.

The 197cm key at the fore part, noted with regard to his contested marks and agility for his bigness, has long been touted as a top draft prospect.

At the age of 14 he was selected in the All-Australian under-15 team and has been closely watched by recruiters since.

This season Butcher, 18, came under fire for his up-and-down form and kicking style, but he remains unfazed by the scrutiny.

He admits his endurance was compromised by hip surgery in December, which prevented him completing a pre-season.

"That made things pretty hard, but you've got to listen to the people that matter - your coaches, your family - and not worry about what else is being said," Butcher reported.

"My goalkicking stats weren't also bad and I think my kicking style improved this year."

Butcher realised another dream in September when he played in a premiership for Maffra in just his second sport of elder football.

He booted an plain-speaking 1.7 on the day, but was still named among the Eagles' best players for his work rate.

"It was just an awesome affecting. It was probably the best usage to finish a year that had been a bit up and down," he said.

Next Thursday, Butcher will trip to Melbourne for the draft, flanked by dint of. his father, Wayne, and spring, Sue.

The trio won't be obliged to wait long to gain arrive at out at what place Butcher is headed - most experts have pegged him as a top-10 collect, with many tipping Port Adelaide as his new home.

"It's been a long year and a long wait, but I'm definitely not querimonious," Butcher said.