At the start of the year, Zach Guthrie just wanted to make the Calder Cannons’ squad.
Having been part of the program at under-16 level, Guthrie missed out on making the under-18 squad last season.
“Last year, I played locally with the Sunbury Lions,” he said last week. “I tried to play my best at local level and work on a couple of areas. My body wasn’t right, so I did a lot of hard work in the gym.
“My priority was to put my best foot forward.”
Guthrie made the Cannons’ squad this year, and was picked in the team’s round one side. Once there, he didn’t want to give up his spot.
He ended up playing every game, coming second in the club’s best and fairest award.
“I wanted to keep developing as a player and a person,” he said. “I guess I tried to improve every game. To come second behind Ben Ronke, who was a worthy winner, is a good measure of the work I put in.”
Guthrie also won the Cannons’ most improved player award. Not only did he nail down his spot, he did it playing in a unfamiliar position.
“It’s the first year playing in defence,” he said.
“It was a bit of a challenge, but once I got used to the role, I gained some confidence.
“We [Zach and his brothers] have been taught through dad, (that) defence is as important as getting the ball.
“Defence is my best position at the moment and I’m comfortable with it.”
Guthrie’s form for the Cannons resulted in his selection for the state combine, an experience he appreciated.
He said he had spoken to AFL recruiters, but wasn’t expecting anything come Friday’s AFL national draft or Monday’s rookie draft.
“School had been the focus, so I haven’t thought about it much. There’s a bit of interest, but I don’t rely on that.
“If I’m picked up, I’m rapt, but I’m not expecting anything, My fingers are crossed.”
If selected, Guthrie doesn’t have to look too far to get advice about being an AFL player.
Older brother Cameron was drafted by Geelong at pick 23 in 2010. He has played 108 games for the Cats, finishing fourth in the club’s best and fairest award this year.
“Being the youngest one, my [three] brothers have been in this spot,” Guthrie said.
“Cam has got exposed to the next level, and exposed me to that intensity and elite level … I admire how he goes about it.”
Guthrie said he is still to decide on his plans for next year if he’s not drafted.
“I’ll see how the next month unfolds.”
