In a remarkable football journey that defied conventional pathways, Fremantle Dockers' newest recruit Tobyn Murray has revealed the unexpected phone call that changed his life forever. The 19-year-old defender's path to the AFL took an unconventional route through the VFL, culminating in his selection with pick 37 in the 2023 national draft.
From VFL obscurity to AFL dream
Murray's football story reads like something from a screenplay. The young defender had essentially given up on his AFL aspirations after being overlooked in his initial draft year. He had settled into VFL football with the Box Hill Hawks, focusing on his university studies and contemplating life beyond professional sport. The phone call from Fremantle list manager David Walls came as a complete shock, turning his world upside down in the best possible way.
"I was actually at the gym when I got the call," Murray recalled. "I saw it was David Walls calling and my heart just started racing. I had to step outside to take it. When he told me they were going to pick me, I was honestly speechless. I'd put the AFL dream to bed and was focused on my VFL career and studies."
The mentors who shaped a career
Murray credits two key football figures for driving his development and maintaining his belief during the challenging periods. Former Geelong Falcons talent manager Michael Turner and Box Hill Hawks coach Clint Proctor played instrumental roles in keeping the young defender's hopes alive while focusing on continuous improvement.
"Michael Turner was massive for me," Murray explained. "He kept telling me to back myself and that my time would come. Even when I didn't get drafted initially, he maintained that I had what it took to make it at the highest level."
The defender also highlighted the impact of his VFL coach, describing Proctor as crucial to his development. "Clint was amazing for my growth as a player. He gave me responsibility in defence and backed me in big moments. The VFL experience against mature bodies prepared me better than I ever could have imagined."
Proving himself against the best
Murray's performances in the VFL didn't go unnoticed by AFL recruiters. His ability to play on taller opponents and read the play effectively made him an attractive prospect for Fremantle's defensive unit. The Dockers identified him as a player who could make an immediate impact despite his unconventional pathway.
"We loved Tobyn's competitiveness and his ability to play above his height," said Fremantle recruiting manager David Walls. "He'd proven himself against men in the VFL and showed he could handle the physical demands of senior football. His journey through the VFL system means he's more prepared for AFL football than many draftees coming through traditional pathways."
Murray now joins a Fremantle team looking to build on their promising young list. His story serves as inspiration for countless other aspiring footballers who might miss out on initial draft selection but continue to pursue their dreams through state league competitions.
The 19-year-old will begin pre-season training with his new teammates in November, ready to prove that sometimes the most rewarding journeys are the ones that take the scenic route. His message to other young footballers is simple: "Never give up on your dream, even if the path isn't what you expected. Keep working hard and your opportunity will come."
