One of North Melbourne FC’s newest draftees is a Greek Australian.

South Australian Blake Thredgold, whose Greek on his mum’s side, was drafted last week by the Kangaroos at pick No.26.

Like others who got drafted, he was instantly jumped by family and friends when his name got called out on TV.

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“It was incredible to be surrounded by my closest friends and family and share such an exciting night with me,” he tells Neos Kosmos.

“Having all my friends jump on me when my name was called out was amazing.”

Blake with his Sturt coach Dion Shinas. Photo: Supplied

He now gets to live out his dream of being an AFL player.

“It’s awesome, it all feels a bit surreal, I feel so lucky to have this opportunity.”

The 194 cm key defender who wants to model his game with the likes of Darcy Moore, Harris Andrews and Josh Worrell, comes out of Sturt Football Club.

It’s at Sturt where one of his coaches and mentors is fellow Greek Dionisis Shinas.

Dion tells Neos Kosmos that they would often talk about the homeland and their Greek roots.

Blake says there have been a lot of players he’s looked up to. “Some inspired me and challenged me to keep developing and improving the way I played and some helped me work on my mindset around resilience, positivity and mindfulness.” Photo: North Melbourne FC/Facebook

“A real testament to Blake, he showed his Greek fight by overcoming a broken hand this year to being drafted,” he says.

“I believe North will look back at this pick as well as the rest of the clubs and be surprised he dropped so far.

“Blake’s parents Stella and Daryl are a great support as well also often speak of how proud of our heritage we are. Even in an Australian game we bring Greek heart and spirit! Zito i ellas!”

Blake’s mum’s parents are from Lesvos and he says he loves the Greek culture and traditions. His mum has kept them going with the family.

And he is excited to get settled in Melbourne and see the huge Greek community.

“I have been told I have to get out to Oakleigh for a frappe, Greek food and Greek sweets. I’m looking forward to it,” Blake says.