Newest Bulldog Cooper Hynes joined Dwayne’s World on Thursday afternoon. Here’s what he had to say.
On Draft night...
I had a little inkling (I’d go to the Bulldogs) but didn’t know for sure though. When my name was called out, it was a pretty cool feeling. It was unreal.
On where he’ll play...
I think my ability to play forward and midfield is one of my strengths, so the more pre-seasons I get under my belt I feel like I’ll be able to move into the midfield more. I definitely see myself developing into that inside, strong mid.
On his former clubs...
I’ve loved my time at Dandenong since under 16s, so I can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done for me. My school as well – Rowville – have been huge as well, so I’ve loved the last few years. It’s been a really long journey, but to get some reward for it has been awesome.
On being ready...
I’m feeling good and ready to get into the pre-season, meet all the boys and connect with the players and staff first and foremost. I will worry about that (playing) a bit later down the line, but obviously the goal is to play good footy next year and I’m going to work as hard as I can to set up myself up.
Bad night to be a picture frame 🖼️
— Western Bulldogs (@westernbulldogs) November 21, 2024
The Hynes household went wild when we selected Cooper in last night’s Telstra AFL Draft 🥳 pic.twitter.com/9Injp4qSpj
On meeting the coach...
Bevo popped over – he was in the area so it was really good for him to come over and meet the family. We had a good chat with him, and saw him today at the footy club as well – I went in for a tour and that sort of thing. I met a few of the boys there. They’ve all been reaching out as well – they’ve been super friendly and welcoming. (Bontempelli) wasn’t there today but he’s been texting me, which is pretty cool and pretty surreal. I look forward to obviously meeting him in person.
On Mission Whitten Oval...
It was awesome to walk through the facilities. It’s obviously the best of the best – you walk through and you see the past players on the wall and all of the history of the footy club. It’s a pretty special moment for me...I’m just super grateful for this opportunity.