Boarding School Builds Resilience for Speedy WingmanTuesday, October 3, 2023 - 9:08 AM

Having witnessed fellow Northam product Bobby Hill win the Norm Smith Medal at this year’s AFL Grand Final, Perth Colts star Aiden O’Driscoll is confident of forging a successful career at the top level.

O’Driscoll enjoyed a strong season with the Demons in the WAFL and with Wesley College in the PSA, enhancing his prospects of being selected in next month’s NAB AFL Draft.

The wingman, who boasts blistering speed, also played for WA at 2023 AFL National Championships – U18 Boys.

O’Driscoll is the younger brother of Fremantle Dockers Nathan and Emma, adding further intrigue to his football future.

“My footy dream started back in Northam, back at home, when I began playing Auskick then moved to junior football,” O’Driscoll said.

It was this stage of Aiden’s life which helped shape his love of the game.

“My biggest influence would be my coaches who taught me to be a better player,” he said.

“The coach I had in Northam taught me how to kick a ball properly, so without him I wouldn’t be in this situation.”

Having moved from Northam to attend boarding school at Wesley College, Aiden quickly established himself as an exciting talent.

“I’ve learned how to be a leader being a Vice-Captain at Wesley.”

O’Driscoll also caught the eye of recruiters in the WAFL Colts Grand Final, kicking two early goals for the Demons in their 11-point loss to Claremont.

“I’m feeling a little bit nervous about the Draft because anything can happen, and it comes down to a bit of luck,” he said.

“If I have to, I feel prepared to go interstate.”

O’Driscoll credits his time at boarding school for preparing him for a potential move.

“I believe being at Wesley away from my family has been a blessing for a possible footy career,” he said.

“I was probably being babied by mum a bit.

“But with the Draft not far away I think I’m ready.”

O'Driscoll is one of 12 WA based players heading to Melbourne for this weekend's NAB AFL Draft Combine.