Fresh faced West Coast draftee Willie Rioli says he was still in shock more than an hour after the Eagles recruitment staff announced him as their third selection in the NAB AFL Draft.

The 21-year-old South Australian said he couldn’t wait to board a plane bound for Perth on Sunday to begin his AFL career.

“It’s still unreal,” Rioli said.

“I’m still a bit numb at the moment. I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”

Rioli, who tried to cool his nerves by grabbing breakfast with his family and heading to a local gaming arcade ahead on the morning of the draft, said he didn’t expect to hear his name until the end of the Sydney-based ballot.

“I didn’t think I would go so early,” Rioli revealed.

“I thought I would be over the 70 mark so I was a bit shocked when my name was read out.

“When I was selected (my family) all jumped with joy and I felt numb as soon as my name was read out. I didn’t move off the couch for an hour. I just sat there and tried to soak it all in.”

Rioli demonstrated incredible commitment during his second pre-season with SANFL club Glenelg to shed close to 16kg in an effort to boost his draft prospects and shone during the SANFL’s representative clash against the VFL in May by booting four goals.

“I was pushing myself pretty hard to play good footy for the club and I didn’t think I’d be invited to the [NAB AFL Combine], really,” Rioli said.

“I just wanted to play good league footy for Glenelg. It kind of worked out well.”

Rioli said he prided himself on being a defensive small forward with a natural sense for finding the goals, much like his cousin, four-time premiership-winning Hawk Cyril.

He said his famous relative often touched base with him throughout the year to track his progress and sent him several congratulatory messages after his draft selection.

And while Rioli was proud to be a member of one of the game’s greatest footballing families, he didn’t think the weight of expectation that came with his name would hinder his development.

“It’s just a blessing,” he said.

“There’s no pressure. We all ask each other for feedback and talk to each other about what we need to improve on. I guess having the last name is a blessing and now, hopefully, I can make a name for myself at West Coast.”