“My cheeks are aching but I can’t stop smiling,” Zaharakis said.
A lifelong Essendon supporter, Zaharakis could not believe his luck when selection 23 ensured the mobile midfielder would be wearing the red and black in 2009.
“I have been an Essendon fan all my life so it is a dream come true,” Zaharakis said.
“Matthew Lloyd is my favourite player. I have followed his career since I was about five years old.
“I had a phonecall from him after the draft and he welcomed me to the club and told me that he was looking forward to meeting me and the rest of the draftees.”
