Everything happened with a rush for Sam Grlj in the early months of this year.

After not being named in the AFL Academy squad last November, a scintillating start to the season sent Grlj – pronounced “Grill” – roaring into top-10 draft contention. There was an eye-catching trial for Victoria Metro, and he also excelled in a new midfield role for Oakleigh Chargers.

Sam Grlj overcame a mid-season rough patch to emerge as a potential first-round pick in the AFL draft. Credit: Wayne Taylor

The teenage speedster had recruiters’ attention, and his enhanced status spread to the media, where Grlj suddenly began seeing his name mentioned. It all became a bit much – and Grlj’s performance suffered.

That led to him approaching former Richmond footballer-turned-sports scientist and high-perfor

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