As part of our Draftee Diary series, we catch up with West Australian recruit Mitch McGovern, and get his thoughts on his first few weeks as a Crow …
Tell us about the first 48 hours after your name was called out by the Crows at the National Draft…
“It was quite overwhelming. It’s hard to explain. I was speechless at the time. I had a lot of phone calls – I don’t think my phone stopped for the first three or four days. It was a great feeling.”
How did you find Phil Walsh’ visit to your family home in WA?
“It was great to have Phil around, so that Mum and Dad could meet him as well. We got to see what type of guy he is, and find out what he expects from me coming into the Club. Mum cooked a good spread, a nice lasagne so I got some brownie points to start off with!”
What’s it like living with Nathan van Berlo?
“Living with Nathan is unreal. I get an insight from not only an AFL player but the skipper of the Club now. It’s a great experience to see what he does after hours and what meals he’s eating.”
What tips have you picked up so far?
“From ‘VB’, I’ve learned to get recovery right and do everything right off the field to get yourself ready for the next session. I’ve also seen his eating habits and how healthy his meals are.”
Are you a good houseguest?
“I try to help out as much as I can at Nathan and Jess’ place whether that’s the dishes or washing. I’m always asking to chip in because I feel guilty that they’re having to babysit me pretty much!”
Describe how it felt getting our Crows jumper and locker for the first time?
“It was surreal. I’ve always dreamed of getting a jumper at an AFL footy club. To be handed the No.41 jumper and locker … I’m opposite Tex Walker and a few others, so it’s pretty exciting to see their faces every day.”
How did you cope with your first training session?
“It was quite tough. The intensity and expectations from the coaching staff and playing group are very high. I managed to pull through … just!”
What’s been the biggest learning curve?
“The biggest learning curve for me has just been the professionalism at the Club and what you need to do to get yourself right and up for the next session, and just how hard the sessions are.”
Have you been given a nickname yet?
“The boys call me ‘Shooter’. I think it’s after a character (Shooter McGavin) in the movie ‘Happy Gilmore’. I don’t mind that nickname, it’s pretty good.”
Which players have you gelled with?
“I’ve gelled with the whole forwards group because I train with them mainly. They’ve all welcomed me with open arms, taught me things I need to know and what not to do. It’s hard to single out a few, they’ve all been great.”
What time do you normally head to bed after a full day of training?
“It’s embarrassing to say, but I’m usually in bed by 8-8:30pm. It’s quite early because I’m knackered.”
