The 197-centimetre key defender, who was part of the AIS-AFL Academy program and took on some of the top forwards in the 2014 Draft crop, felt a moment of dread when he thought about one of his possible sparring partners in his first pre-season at the Swans.
“The first thing I thought of when I found out I was rookie listed was “How am I going to handle Buddy?!,” McLaren told sydneyswans.com.au.
“I think I’m going to have to put on a few more kilos before I can even get close to him in any way in that department.
“I’ll give it my best shot and hopefully he can help me improve.”
The 18-year-old, who also spent time in the ruck during this year’s TAC Cup campaign, hopes his versatility can help him in his first season at an AFL club.
The Sandringham Dragons product, who battled highly-rated draftees including the likes of Peter Wright, Hugh Goddard and Sam Durdin throughout the season, said he was looking forward to identifying his best position and developing as a player at the Swans.
Sean McLaren wrestles old Sydney Swans foe Quenten Lynch playing for the AIS-AFL Academy earlier this year
“I would say I’m a versatile player who can play a range of different positions whether that is on a small opponent or a tall opponent,” he said.
“I’m still trying to work out where I play my best football, but I do think I was able to play some of my best games against some of the best forwards this year.
“As far as what the club has said to me, they’ve said they see me as a ruck/defender role, so I think I’ll fit well in that position.”
Less than 24 hours after being selected by the Swans, McLaren will find himself in the Harbour City tomorrow afternoon to begin his new life as a Swans player.
While admitting the last day had been a whirlwind experience, the young defender said he couldn’t wait to get started.
“I am so humbled and grateful to be their first pick in the rookie draft,” McLaren said.
“(The club) told me that I would be flying up tomorrow morning, so it’s all happening very quickly.
“I’m excited to come up tomorrow and be at such a great club.”
McLaren said he had no concerns about moving interstate and backed himself to settle in well to life in a new city.
“I’m very excited and I’ve been very much looking forward to having a change of lifestyle,” he said.
“I just can’t wait to get to a club like Sydney, which is in a beautiful location and is an even better club.
“I think I’ll handle the move very well and I’m pretty independent and I think I’ll work very well in that sort of environment.”
