Nick Hind’s lifelong dream of winning a spot on an AFL list has been realised after the 24-year-old was taken by St Kilda with pick 54 in the 2018 NAB AFL Draft.

The defender/midfielder couldn’t have made a better case for drafting in an outstanding third season at VFL level with Essendon, claiming a place on the wing in the VFL Team of the Year and finishing second in the Bombers’ best and fairest.

Hind was surrounded by family at home when his long struggle from East Point to the GWV Rebels to Essendon finally culminated in an AFL berth.

“I just can’t wait to get started,” Hind said.

“I’m just looking forward to being the best player I can possibly be.”

Joining the Bombers in 2016 and a member of the leadership group in the team’s charge to a preliminary final this season, 2018 was the year where Hind really hit his straps.

His selection to the Saints was due recognition for not only his raw skills, pace and agility, but his knack for impacting games on a consistent basis.

“I was able to focus on my attacking weapons and work on being consistent, whether that was training or diet or recovery and just looking after my body,” he said.

Hind made no attempt to play down the level of commitment he applied in 2018, but also credited VFL coach Dan Jordan for providing a boost whenever it was needed.

“DJ has been the most important person on my footy journey outside of my family,” he said.

“I thank him more than anyone, he’s been outstanding.

“He’s done everything that he can, whether he’s been hard on me or whether he’s pumped me up. I classify him as one of my really good mates.”

The ultimate goal has been reached. Now, Nick Hind starts anew as a St Kilda player and the challenge will begin from scratch.

“I’ve just loved my time at Essendon, I loved every minute of it,” he said.

“I’m going to miss a lot of the boys, obviously I won’t lose them as mates, but I just had an outstanding time at Essendon.”

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's Official Recruitment and List Management Partner.