After missing out on selection in the AFL National Draft, James Battersby and Alex Spina say they’re rapt to receive an opportunity at the Crows.

Battersby and Spina were picked up by Adelaide in Wednesday’s Rookie Draft.

Battersby said the initial disappointment of being overlooked last week was long gone.

“It was a bit disappointing after the National Draft,” Battersby said.

“But I'm here now and ready to make my stamp as an Adelaide Crow.”

Battersby enjoyed a sublime year at Sturt in the SANFL, playing 10 League games averaging almost 20 possessions a match.

The tough-as-nails midfielder was also part of the victorious South Australian Under-18 team, earning All-Australian honours with his performances at the National Championships. Battersby, who turned 18 last month, said he was delighted to be staying in Adelaide.

“My dream was to stay home, and my dream came true,” Battersby said.

“It’s just good to be here.”

Fellow croweater Alex Spina shared Battersby’s initial disappointment after being overlooked in last week’s National Draft.

“But you can't dwell on it too much,” Spina said.

“A lot of the clubs say 'look forward to next Wednesday' and that's all you can do really.

“Thankfully, we got the opportunity to get drafted by the Crows, which is unbelievable.”

The athletic Spina played alongside Battersby in the SA Under-18 team and also notched 12 matches with the North Adelaide Reserves in the local competition.

With an uncanny goal-sense and great composure, Spina hopes to repay the faith of the Crows’ recruiters in the coming season.

“I can win my own footy and run on the outside to use my skills, mainly through that small-forward role and pushing up into the midfield as well,” Spina said.

National Recruiting Manager Hamish Ogilvie was also delighted to secure the aerobically gifted Jake Kelly from the Oakleigh Chargers at pick No.40.

“We are very fortunate to get him,” Ogilvie said of the 18-year-old utility.

“He's got a professional AFL mentality now and he's super prepared.”

Kelly’s main asset comes in his gut-running aerobic capacity He finished third in the 3km time trial at the Draft Combine, and seventh in the beep test with a score of 15.2.

“He's a really diligent professional and a highly professional kid,” Ogilvie said.

“If ever there was a snapshot of the rookie mentality, that’s what you need.”

Without being drawn into speculation on the new draftees’ immediate playing future, Ogilvie appeared completely relaxed about their prospects at the Club.

“These days you have to be able to play lots of spots, and they all bring that,” Ogilvie said.

“They’ve got some good versatility. We’ve got four beauties … I wouldn’t put any limitations on any of the boys.”