I am lucky enough to know Port Adelaide’s Tom Clurey, who I have met through some of my friends and through the Invergordon Cricket Club.
He is described on Port Adelaide’s website as a tall defender that has shown plenty of ability as a fast running rebound defender. Some recent examples of Tom’s elite fitness are his fourth placing in Port’s 3km time trial earlier this week and a 15.1 beep test at last year’s draft combine. His fitness, along with being 193cm and able to lock down a key forward, will offer great versatility for Port Adelaide. Tom has got a really good head on his shoulders and I am looking forward to seeing his progression over the coming years.
Myself and the whole of SuperCoachHQ were thankful that Tom was able to spend some time with me and answer a few questions.
Tom Clurey: On the day of the draft I was home for a while. I went to cricket training in the afternoon and afterwards I went back home to watch the draft with my family.
AM: How did you think you were going to go at the draft? Had many clubs given you much of an indication that they were interested?
TC: I thought that I was a bit of a chance but I honestly wasn’t too sure if I would get picked up or not. I had spoken to several clubs at the draft camp, but they didn’t give too much away.
AM: What ran through your head once your name was called out?
TC: I was shocked at first and then just overwhelmed. It didn’t really sink in for a couple of days.
AM: What has it been like moving interstate? Who are you living with?
TC: It was a big change moving interstate. Coming straight out of school and having to move was hard because I was used to seeing my family and friends every day. I am currently living with a host family and another Port Adelaide player.
AM: If my memory is correct, you were emergency once for Port’s side last year. Although you can only play and train your best then leave it to the selectors, have you set yourself a goal when you want to have made an appearance in the senior side?
TC: Yeah, I definitely want to play senior footy in 2014. I am looking forward to having a good pre-season and giving it a real crack coming into the new season.
AM: Thanks a lot, Tom. All the best with the rest of the off-season.