Matthew Dick still occasionally has to pinch himself when he considers how far he has come in such a short time.

In just three months, the 18-year-old has relocated from Macedon in Central Victoria to Australia’s most populous city, is living out of home for the first time, and is regularly receiving football advice from a range of Sydney Swans premiership players and coaches.

The young defender has also undergone hours of training both in the gym and on the track, and has had to adapt to life as a professional footballer.

Speaking to sydneyswans.com.au at last week’s Coffs Harbour training camp, Dick said he was now adjusting to how to play as a Swan.

“I’m starting to learn the structures in the game sense, and I’m just getting a much better understanding for it all,” Dick said.

“I’m still learning my role in the team, but so far I’ve been happy with how I’ve gone, but there is always more to learn.”

Dick has been fortunate to have a number of worthy mentors since joining the club, in particular fellow defender Nick Malceski, who the youngster says has been the most influential.

“All the senior players have been really helpful, but Nick Malceski has been particularly good and he’s just really vocal out on the track, which helps,” he said.

“Teddy Richards has also been really good and I’ve also gone into the midfield a few times and Joey (Josh Kennedy) was really helpful just with all the structures.

“I feel pretty honoured to be honest, and it’s a bit surreal as well, because a couple of months ago you’d never be dreaming of playing alongside premiership players, but they have all been really helpful.”

Dick’s first footy goal this season is to put his name forward for selection in this month’s NAB Cup competition, but the young defender admits he still has a long way to go.

“I think it’s any kid’s dream (to get a NAB Cup game) and what you play footy for in your junior life, but it’s still a long way off,” he said.

“I’ve just got to keep working hard now on the track and we’ll have to see what happens.”

Outside of football, Dick said he is thoroughly enjoying his new lifestyle and new home in the Sydney beachside suburb of Maroubra.

“I’m living with Luke Parker and that’s really good and I’m loving it out where we live in Maroubra,” he said.

“It’s been a really easy to transition into living by myself, and I’m spending a bit more money than I’d like to, but it’s been good.”