But they're far from the only ones making the jump, with Queensland Under-18s skipper Joel Wilkinson making the transition a couple of years ago.
The NAB AFL Under-18 Championships wrap up this week with Division Two games at Visy Park on Tuesday and Division One matches at Skilled Stadium on Wednesday.
But Wilkinson won't be able to help his team record its first win of the carnival due to a broken collarbone sustained in an earlier match, a reminder of how tough footy is at any level.
Wilkinson moved from athletics, and says the AFL Talent Pathway Program has been a huge help in making the switch.
"I was doing long jump and triple jump, and the transition has been really enjoyable, I've absolutely loved it," he told afl.com.au.
"I love footy, I love everything about it - it has been quick, it's been a quick two years, but the Pathway's just been a huge help.
"AFL's just got a great feeling about it - there's no sport better, definitely."
But he was less assertive when asked to give some advice to the League stars on how to go about making the switch work.
"Just enjoy it - it's the best sport in the world.
"Obviously, physically it's demanding, mentally it's demanding, but they're professional athletes so realistically I'm looking up to them.
"I can't say much more than just enjoy it."
Wilkinson exudes responsibility and leadership, and it's easy to see why he's been made skipper despite his short time in the game.
He said leadership was something he had always felt drawn to.
"It's something I've always enjoyed doing in all sports, and it's an absolute thrill leading your state against the best players in the country," he said.
"I just like to keep it positive and keep the belief going, because that's the big thing with the championships - it is a big stage, but at the end of the day you've just got to knuckle down and do the team things, do your team structures, play your role.
"But just enjoy your footy - that's what I try and keep amongst the boys, just try and enjoy your footy and let things unfold themselves."
Tuesday, June 29
Queensland v Northern Territory 12.30pm, Visy Park
Tasmania v NSW/ACT 2.30pm, Visy Park
Wednesday, June 30
Vic Metro v Western Australia 12.35pm, Skilled Stadium
Vic Country v South Australia 2.45pm, Skilled Stadium
