30/11/2009 11:50 AM
Adelaide recruit Daniel Talia says the rich history and sporting success at Assumption College has had the greatest impact in his football development.
The Calder Cannons player, who the Crows secured with their No.13 pick in last Thursday's draft, said the guidance of the school's long-time coach Ray Carroll and former Footscray player Scott Wynd had been invaluable.
"His (Wynd's) experience playing with the Bulldogs and obviously a Brownlow Medal winner, just like where to run how to nudge opponents under the ball and little things like that," he said.
"It (Assumption College) has got such a great history and culture. I think just the spirit and the closeness of the guys at Assumption College, everyone looks up to Mr Carroll and he really brings the boys together."
"The spirit and the culture just lives on year by year and obviously that shows by the success the school has."
Assumption has already produced a range of AFL players including Neale Daniher, Billy Brownless and Shane Crawford.
The Crows, who will be hoping they've unearthed their own success story from the college, undoubtedly picked the 18-year-old for his versatility.
Talia played in attack for the Cannons last season but received All-Australian selection at centre half-back in the AFL Under-18 Championships.
"To be called out by such a great club, it was a real thrill," Talia said on being picked by the Crows.
"Not many Melbourne clubs spoke to me before the draft and Adelaide seemed keen so I really thought I was coming to Adelaide."
Talia, who was a Carlton supporter and the grandson of Footscray premiership player Harvey Stevens says his family had no problems with him moving interstate.
"They were obviously really honoured and really excited for me to be moving away and going to such a great club like Adelaide, obviously thrilled for me and a little bit sad but happy at the same time," he said.
Talia, and the Crows' other Victorian draftees Jack Gunston and Sam Shaw attended their first team meeting at West Lakes on Monday morning.