The Kolodjashnij twins are preparing to play for different teams in 2014
IT'S NOT their preference, but Tasmania's Kolodjashnij twins, Kade and Jake, are getting their heads around playing for different clubs in 2014.
The 18-year-olds are almost inseparable and have spent the past six days on the Gold Coast relaxing with their family ahead of Thursday night's NAB AFL Draft.
But with highly-touted Kade expected to be taken in the top five, and Jake almost certain to go later in the draft, there is the real possibility the boys will be split for one of the first times in their lives.
Speaking at sunny Kurrawa Beach on Tuesday morning, Jake said he had come to terms with the scenario.
"That'd be the best outcome, to be on the same team, but it's highly unlikely," Jake said.
"It's something we have to prepare for. Doing a lot together, we're pretty close, but I reckon we'll be fine.
"It's going to be real challenging being at a separate club because we've always been on the same teams, but I'm sure once we settle in and get used to the new teammates and making new friends, it'll be a lot easier."
They have always played on the same team – whether it be football, basketball or soccer – and quite often start and finish each other's sentences.
The twins from Launceston had a trial separation earlier this year, when Kade joined his AIS teammates on a two-week tour of Europe.
"That was the one of the longest periods we've been separated from each other," Jake said.
"It's quite strange driving the car by myself, but doing stuff more independently definitely helped. I know if we do get separated, I've had experiences."
Kade is a smooth-moving half-back who vaulted into top-five calculations with his play at the national under-18 championships and strong testing at the AFL Combine.
He has been linked with Gold Coast's No.5 selection, or could even go to either St Kilda (No.3) or the Western Bulldogs (No.4).
"It'd be unreal living up here," he said on the possibility of going to the Suns.
"I'm really enjoying it up here. Gold Coast are a really good up and coming team, so to play with Gary Ablett would be unreal.
"(Being from Tasmania) I've always known I'd have to move interstate. I'm sure it'd be pretty challenging to start with, moving away from your family, but once I get used to it, I'll be fine."