Young Magpie has plenty of Steele - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Young Magpie has plenty of Steele

By Roger Vaughan 03/12/2008 06:55:31 PM Comments (0)

Well before he arrived at Collingwood, Steele Sidebottom was making a big impression.

Apart from his striking name, the 17-year-old starred this year in the TAC Cup grand final, kicking 10 goals and racking up 34 touches as the Murray Bushrangers won the premiership.

The Magpies took the utility with their first pick at No.11 in Saturday's AFL national draft.

His team-mates have wasted no time welcoming him with a flurry of nicknames.

As the youngest of five brothers, Sidebottom is well used to the teasing and boasts a thick skin.

"Being the youngest, growing up, you get beaten around a bit - it helps you out a lot," Sidebottom said.

"I only found this out recently - (Mum) said something about it being a strong name, being the youngest.

"I've got a few nicknames - Bluescope, stuff like that - they're coming strong already."

Sidebottom grew up an Essendon supporter but all he wanted was a spot on an AFL list.

He listened to a radio broadcast of Saturday's draft at the family home in Shepparton, north of Melbourne, and said he felt relief when his name was called.

"I suppose you couldn't ask for any better place to be, it's awesome," said Sidebottom, who had his first training session with the Magpies on Wednesday.

"It's daunting, but then you realise how good it is.

"I'd always said, anywhere I ended up, I'd love it."

Sidebottom's pre-draft profile grew dramatically after his TAC Cup performance.

But despite the 10 goals, he played around the ground this season and is unsure what role he will fill at Collingwood.

"There was a little bit of pressure, I suppose, but not a great deal," he said.

"I'm just coming to the club to do my best.

"It was just one of those nights where I had a good time ... maybe it did boost me up a little bit."

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