Matt Fuller’s shift into defence this season for SANFL side Norwood played to his strengths, showcasing a thumping left boot, line breaking ability and a genuine ability as a high metres gained player.

The 23-year-old had no guarantees in the lead up to last Thursday NAB AFL Draft but when his name was called out at pick 42 he knew his life was now taking a different path.

Predominantly playing on the wing in 2012, Fuller made the switch to a rebounding role down back this season and hasn't looked back.

“[In 2013] I played a little on the wing to start with, then they threw me down into the loose drop off defender,” he said.

“I finished off the year with a few better numbers than previous, so that was nice.”

A role transitioning defence into attack allowed Fuller to showcase his pinpoint foot skills and bursts of pace.

“Probably my kick’s my main [strength] that seems to get noticed a fair bit – I try and rely on that a fair bit to get me through,” he said.

“I am usually a fairly good runner as well, I tend to have a couple of speed bursts when I need it and do what I have to, to break the lines.”

Three days into his AFL journey, Fuller said he was still pinching himself but the Club had embraced him immediately.

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind… the boys have been very welcoming, getting around me a fair bit so it’s nice,” he said.

“AFL will be my job, just playing footy for a living it’s going to be awesome, I can focus on one thing.”

Fuller was one of four draftees recruited from Norwood’s premiership side this year, alongside James Aish (Brisbane), Trent Dumont (North Melbourne) and Orazio Fantasia (Essendon).