The son of dual premiership player Chris Waterman will be drafted by West Coast with the last active pick in the NAB AFL draft after there were no other bids for the inside midfielder.
The 18-year-old said he has felt the weight of carrying his father's name and is determined to let his football do the talking.
HIGHLIGHTS: Alec in action
"For as long as I can remember that's been sitting on my shoulders, not just with footy but off the field as well," Waterman said.
"It's just a massive relief to know that I got picked for what I did and not what people said. I'm just happy that I got picked on what I've done."
Waterman put together some standout performances in the U18 championships for Western Australia.
He gathered 35 touches and had 10 clearances against Vic Metro. He was ultra consistent for Claremont in the WAFL colts competition in 2014 averaging 21 disposals in a side that made the grand final.
GALLERY: Alec in Eagles colours
Waterman's father Chris, who played 177 matches for the Eagles including the 1992 and 1994 premierships, believes his son has earned his selection through hard work.
"It's good for him because he's worked hard for it," Chris Waterman said.
"Growing up with that shadow hanging over him, he's had to put up with a lot of sniggering behind his back and comments like 'he only gets this because of his name or his old man'. So the fact he's been chosen on his merits is terrific for him."
Alec Waterman said a career in football did not become an aim until he turned 15. He said he copped a serve from Carlton assistant coach Rob Wiley after the U16 championships a few years ago, when Wiley was working with the WA team.
"I got a bit of a kick in the bum by Robby Wiley," Waterman said.
"Just saying, 'look if you want it you are going to have to work harder'.
"I think my first year of colts was sort of the year I knew I wanted it."
Waterman has become the second father-son selection in West Coast's history after Jacob Brennan. Ironically, Brennan was delisted last week and it served as a sharp reminder of the harsh reality of AFL football.
"Mum and dad are close to the Brennans, and it's a sad time," Waterman said.
"But you've got to make the most of your opportunities. If I get the opportunity I'm just going to give it everything."
