Ahead of next Friday night's NAB AFL Draft, where St Kilda holds picks No. 7, No. 8, No. 34 and No. 45, saints.com.au has received an insight into the world of list management from the recruiting team at Linen House Centre.

What is your pathway to recruiting at the Saints?

Started at the club on a part-time basis in 2009 in my final year of completing an Exercise Science degree.

How many years have you worked at the club and in recruiting?

Started in 2009 part-time and then became full-time at the start of 2011.

What states or territories do you cover?

I manage Victoria but as we all do, I attend games and interview players from all over the country.

Who was the best player recruited from your region in 2016?

Andrew McGrath (Pick No. 1, Essendon)

How many interstate trips have you been on this year?

20 - SA x 8, WA x 6, NT x 1, QLD x 2, NSW x 2, TAS x 1 plus USA trip for the AFL Academy Camp in January

How many games have you watched this year?

Somewhere between 110-120 including practice matches.

How many prospective recruits have you interviewed?

Personally maybe 60 players but some have been 2 to 4 times.

Who is the best player you have seen at the age of 18?

Steven Coniglio - Greater Western Sydney

What is the most important attribute you look for in a recruit and why?

Character – determines how much a player will improve and get the most out of their talents.

Which current Saint did you watch play the most before he was drafted?

Seb Ross - pick No. 25, 2011

Was there a moment with that player that stands out in his draft year?

He played for North Ballarat Rebels late in the season when most of the better players were missing for the Rebels due to the Herald Sun Shield final and he was playing against a strong Calder team. As a lone hand, he really stood up and worked as hard as I’d ever seen him and was very impressive overall.

Who is the best value pick on St Kilda’s list?

Jack Newnes – pick 37. After playing seven games in his first year, he has played 106 out of his next possible 110 games across the next five seasons.

How important is the interview process in evaluating a prospective recruit?

Very. It helps get a feel for the person and not just the player, as well as a better understand of his background, family and overall character.

How would you describe Tony Elshaug?

Relentless