JACOB Hopper credits the controversial northern academies for helping to prepare him for what shapes as a distinguished career at Greater Western Sydney.
The young Giant enjoyed an outstanding debut in Greater Western Sydney's thumping 91-point victory over Gold Coast, amassing 32 disposals, 17 contested possessions and nine clearances to be the round eight nominee for the NAB AFL Rising Star award.
Hopper hails from Leeton, a town in the Riverina region of New South Wales. The Giants' access to players from the Riverina has been a topic of much debate among Victorian clubs, who are angry their northern rivals are gaining access to the most talented youngsters in land.
He played his junior football for Leeton Whitton United Football and Netball Club before transferring to St Patrick's College in Ballarat at the start of 2014.
Hopper, who captained the under-18 NSW/ACT side last year, does not want to buy into the whole debate but he did make it known that he believes the academies are beneficial.
"It provides a distinct pathway for those of us from rural areas," Hopper told AFL.com.au.
"For boys like me, the academy is crucial for the growth of our game."
The discussion is bound to continue as the Giants keep soaring up the ladder and the Hopper family might continue to be at the forefront of things.
Jacob's younger brother Sam, a talented tall prospect, is coming through the GWS academy. Both Sam and older brother Zac, as well as parents Deanna and James, were on hand to cheer him on.
In fact, almost "half of Leeton" turned out to watch Hopper star in his first AFL game, with the young midfielder requesting 40 tickets for family and friends for the game at Spotless Stadium.
Hopper estimates that figure had ballooned to 80 or 100 Leeton locals before the start of the game.
The 19-year-old did not appear at all fazed by the occasion and was shaded by only Dylan Shiel, who collected 34 touches, as the leading possession-getter on the ground.
Giants coach Leon Cameron forced Hopper to be patient, with the strength of the Giants' side keeping the promising midfielder in the NEAFL.
In four NEAFL appearances Hopper averaged almost 31 disposals, 17 of them contested, six clearances and five tackles per game.
With Ryan Griffen and Toby Greene sidelined through injury, Hopper took his opportunity.
"It was a little frustrating (to be playing in the NEAFL) but it allowed me to work on a few things, especially my defensive transition and spread from the contest," Hopper said.
Hopper may have been sitting fifth on the NEAFL MVP leaderboard prior to the weekend's round. With an AFL spot now locked in, it's fair to say the young Giant is likely to tumble down those rankings.
