North Melbourne young gun Harry Sheezel has reflected on his impressive first AFL game.
Making his debut after being taken with pick No. 3 in last year’s draft, Sheezel was prolific as he collected 34 disposals in the Kangaroos’ five-point win over West Coast to earn the Round 1 Rising Star nomination.
Sheezel says he was able to be so calm and composed in his first outing after receiving some helpful advice from club captains Jy Simpkin and Luke McDonald pre-game.
“My confidence was zapped a bit early because my first kick went straight to the opposition,” Sheezel told SEN Afternoons.
“I probably wasn’t calm straight away but then I got a couple of handballs after that, I settled in pretty well and felt I was pretty comfortable out there.
“I just had the confidence to try and do my thing, once I’m playing footy, I’m locked in.
“I had some really good advice before the game from Jy (Simpkin) and Luke McDonald to soak it all in and make the most of the opportunity and don’t just think, ‘Football, football, football’, it was to try and enjoy the moment because you only debut once.
“That really helped my mindset to just enjoy the day and then when the game started, to lock in, so that made it really easy.”
In picking up 34 disposals Sheezel becomes the first player to record 30 or more touches since Michael Barlow in 2010.
Playing off half-back, Sheezel got the ball going forward for the Kangaroos but perhaps even most stunningly he wasn’t playing in his natural position.
Drafted as a clever small forward, Sheezel was asked whether he now considered himself a defender.
“I’m not too sure to be honest,” Sheezel said.
“I think I’ll probably play there this week, I think they’re not really putting a limit on where I’ll play.
“It’s more of a week-to-week thing or it could even change during games.
“So, I’m not too sure I’ll keep an open mind to it, I’m happy to play wherever Clarko wants me.”
Sheezel’s arrival at Arden Street coincided with legendary coach Alastair Clarkson’s appointment and the teenager is a big admirer of the 54-year-old’s work.
“He’s been unbelievable,” Sheezel said.
“From day one since I’ve walked in, he’s been really welcoming and supported.
“He’s treated us really well us first years, I just have so much admiration for him as a person and as a coach as well.
“Everything he says, I just love listening to, he always has the right stuff to say.
“I think that’s really important for a coach.”
Sheezel and North Melbourne go in search of a 2-0 start when they fly to Perth to face Fremantle on Saturday night.
The youngster inked a new contract extension until the end of 2026 earlier on Tuesday.