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Western Bulldogs Selection: No. 76
Position: Half Forward/Wing
DOB: 24/11/86
Height: 183cm
Weight:73kg
Recruited from: NT Wanderers

Shane Thorne nearly walked away from AFL football two years ago, looking to spend more time with his young daughter.  But Western Bulldogs supporters are sure to be relieved that the Territorian decided to recommit to the game, as the mature aged recruit looks to provide plenty of excitement for the Red, White and Blue.

The 23 year old admits that the last few hours have been a little overwhelming but he cannot wait to get to the Whitten Oval and begin the next phase of his career.

“Yeah it is very pleasing, I am really happy.  There is a lot of relief I guess and it took a lot of hard work to get here, I just can’t wait to get started,” Thorne said.

Speaking from his home in Darwin today, Thorne said he believes his age will be beneficial as he looks to settle in Melbourne.

“Wayne (McCraw) and Simon (Dalrymple) from the recruiting department spoke to me about how they saw my age as a positive.  I have been around a bit and experienced a lot of footy which should prepare me well," Thorne said.

Recruiting Officer Wayne McCraw discovered Thorne and the two have already developed a close relationship.

Thorne will fly down to Melbourne over the weekend and says he cannot wait to meet the Clubs established stars.

“Seeing the whole group will be fantastic, guys like Barry Hall, Brad Johnson, Rob Murphy, Aker and Griffen are great players.  I am so excited but also a little scared in a way.  I am just looking forward to getting down there and seeing what it’s all about.  It’s a big stepping stone and I am just looking forward to taking them on,” Thorne said.

Recruiting and Football Partnerships Manager Simon Dalrymple believes he may have found something special in Thorne.

"We went up to Darwin a couple of weeks ago and met with his partner and young child and in-laws, so we've developed a good relationship with him already.  We see him at pick 76 in the draft as an x-factor for the Bulldogs, that outside player that can run and kick the ball. We're very strong with inside players so we think that Shane can be that bit of excitement for us," Dalrymple said.