Junior footy, representative sides, TAC Cup, National Draft.

That’s how the bulk of young footballers find their way onto an AFL list. Eric Wallace’s pathway was a little different.

The 197cm, 102kg former College basketballer got his AFL start at a testing combine in Los Angeles, where he impressed recruiters with his speed and athleticism.

“I was curious to go to the combine in LA and from there, I was still curious and crazy enough to pursue AFL” – Eric Wallace

“I was curious to go to the combine in LA and from there, I was still curious and crazy enough to pursue it.”

Thankfully for Wallace, the Kangaroos were curious enough to give him a go as well, signing him on as a Category B rookie.

“Three years later, to still be listed with some of the best players in the League is a blessing. I’m just glad I can enjoy it, at the moment.”

Though he’s yet to play a senior game for North Melbourne, he’s come a long way.

“I couldn’t even kick when I got here, couldn’t run around the field once,” Wallace said.

“I didn’t know what any of the footy lingo was.”

But a lot’s changed since then, and the way he speaks now shows the footy lingo has well and truly sunk in.

“I’m taking things one week at a time, one game at a time, one training session at a time. You hang your hat on the small achievements.

“It’s been a good journey, but it’s not over and that’s the good thing.”

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