His nerves were building as the 2010 AFL National Draft progressed but there was finally some relief for Shaun Atley at pick 17 with North Melbourne calling his name.

“I was stoked to be able to stay at a Victorian club…it’s unreal, I’m very happy,” Atley told kangaroos.com.au just minutes after being drafted.

“I didn’t really have any expectations as to where I was going so to be picked by North, such a good club…you know…I’m stoked really. I had no idea where I was going and I was just sitting there waiting for name to be called and when it finally got called out by North I was rapt…I was really happy.”

Atley was predicted by some experts to go in the top ten, but North managed to snaffle him up when he slipped through the cracks.

“I’m an inside or outside kind of player that can change those roles…I like to run and carry the ball. I was an All-Australian this year…I can’t remember where they put me,” Atley said.

“I played most of my life as a half-back, and this year I played midfield so I want to become a better midfielder and add that to my game.”

And the former Murray Bushranger will have a familiar face at Arden Street to make him feel welcome.

“I played with Brayden Norris last year and he’s the only one I know there. I’d just like to get settled in first and get to know everyone first and then take it from there.”