The Brisbane Lions have picked up Victorian winger Brad Harvey with Pick No.13 at the NAB AFL Rookie Draft.

Harvey comes to the Lions from Eastern Ranges/Coldstream where he proved himself as a talented outside midfielder with outstanding pace.

Harvey was at home in Victoria with his Mum, brothers and friends when he learned that he would be going to Brisbane to start his AFL career.

“I was really excited because I hadn’t made a lot of contact with the Brisbane Lions, so I was surprised but really happy,” he said.

“We were gathered around the computer and my name all of a sudden popped up and we couldn’t believe it. Mum shed a few tears at first but we are all pretty excited now.”

Harvey has visited the Sunshine State before but has never been to Brisbane - something he is now looking forward to.

“I’ve always lived in Victoria and it will be a big move but it’s something that I think I can definitely adapt to,” Harvey said.

“It helps that I have a few mates up there. Pat Karnezis, Ryan Lester (both drafted at the NAB AFL National Draft last month) and Josh Dyson (current Lions Rookie) are all friends of mine from back home in Victoria so that will make the move a lot easier.”

Harvey grew up idolising James Hird and Matthew Lloyd, but likens his style more to Carlton midfielder Bryce Gibbs.

“I wouldn’t really compare myself to anyone, but Bryce Gibbs is someone I look up to as a player and try to emulate,” Harvey said.

As for Lions players, Harvey is looking forward to meeting some of the greats who he grew up watching as a kid.

“It will be great to meet the two big forwards, Jonathan Brown and Brendan Fevola, and learn from them. Obviously I’m also really excited to play under Michael Voss - I admired him so much growing up and now I not only get to meet him face to face, but I get to benefit from having him as my coach.”

The Lions chose Harvey for his speed, competitiveness, and his potential to develop.

 
“Brad Harvey is a quick player and he uses that speed to run past, receive the ball and break free of traffic,” National Talent Manager Rob Kerr said today.

The Lions also welcomed back three familiar faces in the Rookie Draft, with Bart McCulloch, Albert Proud and Broc McCauley being taken with Picks 30, 47 and 62 respectively.