Click here to watch Ben Sinclair speak to CTV after the win against Richmond

While the acquisition of Luke Ball via the 2009 AFL Draft commanded the headlines throughout trade week, it was Collingwood’s second selection which could prove most valuable to the club’s future on-field success.

Already impressing head coach Mick Malthouse with his first two matches, Ben Sinclair (overall pick 62) has shown he is capable of making his mark at the senior level.

The former Oakleigh Charger was named in the best in last Friday’s win over Richmond at Visy Park and received extensive praise from Malthouse in his first match for the club in wet conditions in Alice Springs.

“Ben Sinclair has a great first touch and is not scared to put his head over the ball,” Malthouse told Collingwoodfc.com.au during its live chat coverage of the match.
“He is not afraid to create his own play.”

Half-brother to former Geelong Cat Will Slade (17 games) and son of former Demon Peter Sinclair (34 games), the new Magpie has a well-rounded
understanding of the progress he needs to forge a career for himself in the AFL.

“I hope to put on a bit of weight”, Sinclair told CTV after the win over Richmond.

“That’s my main priority. I want to give it my best shot and see if I can play any senior games.”

Averaging 10 possessions from his first two matches, the 18-year-old concedes his transition to professional football has been a wake-up call.

“It’s a bit of a big step up.  All the boys help you out and let you know where to position yourself.  The intensity and speed of the game is way harder than what I am used to.

“Hopefully I can see myself on the wing or as a small forward.  Somewhere around that area.

“I am just looking forward to playing my part and taking each step in the right direction.”