When Kieran Harper was drafted to North Melbourne, Brad Scott labeled him an explosive player who could hopefully step into a Brent Harvey-type role in the years to come and after Harvey himself retires.

"It really was an honour to hear that and it does give you a bit of confidence but at the same time, I want to make my own name for myself and develop my style of footy," Harper told kangaroos.com.au.

While he's certainly shown that ability so far this season, the youngster is not one to get ahead of himself. Already building a reputation as a flashy and exciting player, off the field he is quiet and has a very humble approach.

With more intensity surrounding the competition for spots in North's best 22 each week and the emergence of other talented youngsters such as Shaun Atley, leadership and role models at Aegis Park are important for up and comers like Harper.

"I definitely look up to Boomer and also Daniel Wells. They're both the explosive-type players that I watch and who I want to model my footy around.

"I sat in on one of Wellsy's reviews the other day and soaked up as much information, hints and tips that I could. He's great to learn from."

After working hard in the VFL for Werribee, Harper earned a senior call-up in round six this year and quickly impressed with his transition to the AFL.

"At the start of the season I was just hoping to get one game but now I've been lucky enough to play nine," Harper added.

"My first game against Port Adelaide was great. I was pretty happy to kick a goal and to see the crowd stand up in support as I ran back to the bench was one of the best feelings."

As a first-year player there are more challenges than just finding the football and it's easy to forget most draftees are barely considered adults in our society.

"Moving in with my host family was a bit of an adjustment at first but now it feels completely normal. Sue and Peter are the nicest people and their family have been really welcoming.

"I try to get home at least once a week or so depending on the football schedule."

In addition to the support of his host family, Harper says it's those who sit alongside him in the locker room that have made the transition to Aegis Park an easy one.

"We've got a really good leadership group here and teammates who become your friends. It's great to play amongst these type of guys, I really enjoy taking the field next to them."