Terlich gets another chance

This article first appeared in The Border Mail 30/11

By Chris Mitchell

Melbourne recruit Dean Terlich says he’s now better equipped to handle life as an AFL footballer than when he was a fresh-faced Sydney Swans rookie.

The Osborne-raised utility is determined to make the most of a rare second chance at the top level after being taken by the Demons with pick No. 68 in last week’s national draft.

The 22-year-old mature-age recruit, who has been playing with Norwood after spending the 2008 season at the Swans, said he now knew what was expected.

“Going to Sydney was an eye-opener,” Terlich said.

“I know what to expect now.

“Coming into the AFL system as a 17-year old, you are thrown into the deep end.

“Having a bit more experience hopefully will give me a head’s up.

“It’s one thing getting here but it’s another thing getting games under your belt.”

Melbourne had closely followed Terlich and was convinced beyond any doubt to recruit him after he was best afield in Norwood’s grand final win against West Adelaide in September, the Redlegs’ first SANFL flag since 1997.

“We were sold on him but if we needed any more reinforcement, that was good for us,” Demons coach Mark Neeld said.

“He has lovely skills and is a player who has a history of playing well in big games.

“We think he can play straight away.”

Former Murray Bushranger Terlich played his career as a forward before being convinced by Norwood coach Nathan Bassett to move to the backline this season.

It’s that versatility that has convinced the Demons to take a punt on the Riverina product, who was also courted by St Kilda.

Terlich follows the likes of Paul Puopolo (Hawthorn), Nick Duigan (Carlton) and Sam Rowe (Carlton) being drafted since Bassett started at Norwood in 2010.

“Bass (Bassett) said my best footy was running straight at the ball and I started training there and ended up playing the whole season there,” said Terlich, who was considered for a rookie spot at Port Adelaide in 2009.

“I loved it. I got a fair bit of freedom.

“I was pigeon-holed as a half-forward but it shows I’ve got a few more tricks up my sleeve.

“Melbourne drafted me as a defender so that’s the plan but you never really know what’s going to happen.”

While Terlich hopes to have a long career with the Demons, he’d love to return home one day.

His family has a farm near Henty, while his brothers, Sam and Ben, play in the Hume league for Rand-Walbundrie.

“I definitely want to come back and coach one day but not yet,” Terlich said.

“Hopefully, I’ve got a few more years in me.”