Home

AFL draft: Jacob van Rooyen achieves first-round goal, heads to reigning premiers Melbourne

Headshot of Braden Quartermaine
Braden QuartermaineThe West Australian
VideoAFL draft 2021 - Jacob Van Rooyen.

Claremont key-position utility Jacob van Rooyen is headed to the reigning premiers after becoming the fourth West Australian taken in the first round when Melbourne took him with pick 19.

Van Rooyen, who has impressed at both ends of the ground this season, had a feeling he could land at the Demons.

“It’s really exciting and hopefully I can be a part of it next year and do it all again,” he said.

AFL Draft. Jacob van Rooyen from Claremont was selected by the Melbourne Demons. Jacob is pictured with family (L-R) Samuel (Brother), Jo (mum), Jacob, David (Dad) and Benji (Brother).
Camera IconJacob van Rooyen with family (L-R) Samuel, mum Jo, dad David and Benji. Credit: Jackson Flindell/The West Australian

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

“I had an interview with (coach) Simon (Goodwin) and then they called me (Tuesday) night to see how I was going. So I had a suspicion but wasn’t really sure.

“I feel obviously stoked and pumped. It’s really exciting and a dream come true.”

The Game AFL 2024

Van Rooyen, who was slowed by glandular fever earlier this year, believed he was capable of playing senior footy next season and didn’t mind in which position.

“I think I’m quite close enough to a good size and good weight,” he said.

“It’s probably just learning to be a bit smarter with my body.”

WA's Jacob van Rooyen is heading to the Dees.
Camera IconWA's Jacob van Rooyen is heading to the Dees. Credit: Daniel Wilkins/The West Australian

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails