1. He’s the ultimate swingman

Rising through the junior ranks, Whitlock established himself as a versatile tall, showcasing great potential at both ends of the ground during his time with Vic Country and the Murray Bushrangers. The talented youngster excelled as a key defender, with his reading of the play and intercept marking strong features of his game. Equally impactful at the other end of the ground, he was prolific as a forward in 2024, slotting 27 goals in 14 Coates Talent League games to land a spot in the league's Team of the Year.

2. … and an athletic big man

Despite his lengthy frame of 197cm, Whitlock’s athleticism and agility turned heads during his draft year. The versatile tall’s running vertical jump of 90cm at the National Draft Combine ranked him sixth overall, while his 20m run speed (3.05 seconds) was also noteworthy for a key position prospect.

3. He's likely to line up on his brother in the near future

Having endured fierce battles in countless sports as young brothers on their 80-acre Shepparton family farm, it’s fitting that Matt – who was born two minutes after his twin - and Jack Whitlock will get to lock up on an AFL field some day in the near future. With both destined to have an impact at the highest level, it was a race to see who would be selected first on draft night. In the event, Matt edged the honours, becoming a Kangaroo with the final pick of the draft's opening night.

4. He and Finn O’Sullivan go way back

Before arriving at Arden Street, Whitlock and the club’s top 2024 draft selection Finn O’Sullivan (pick 2 overall) already have a strong connection. The pair have known each other since they were 12 years old, and have developed as teammates playing for Vic Country. "It’s been unreal getting drafted with Finn," Whitlock told NMFC Media after being selected. "I think we’ll be a good duo out there."

5. He's repped Australia

Alongside his new Roos teammate O’Sullivan, Whitlock was chosen to represent Australia’s U18 AFL Academy against Footscray’s VFL side in early 2024. Whitlock showed glimpses of what he could do against seasoned bodies, taking a nice intercept mark in the opening quarter, before getting involved through transitional play out of defence.