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?

I was the Talent and Development Manager at the Oakleigh Chargers in the TAC Cup for eight years and also a Level 3 Coach who was involved in Assistant Coaching roles with both Oakleigh Chargers and The Vic Metro program. Previously to this I was a PE Teacher for 10 years in Secondary schools.

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

Three years

What states or territories do you cover?

I manage SA and WA but we are all involved in covering all of Australia 

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

SA – Will Hayward (Pick No. 21 Sydney) / WA – Sam Petrevski–Seton (Pick No. 6 Carlton)

How many interstate trips have you been on this year?

Somewhere between 25-30 (Virgin said I was in the top 2% of travellers, have spent the equivalent of 3 days in the air!)

How many games have you watched this year?

100+

How many prospective recruits have you interviewed?

80+

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

Hard to answer – Luke Shuey or Joe Daniher or Darcy Moore

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

Competitiveness is a must but I like players who make good decisions and have good composure under all circumstances.

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

Jack Billings, Daniel McKenzie and Jack Sinclair during my time at Oakleigh.

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

JB’s 2012 TAC Cup Grand Final / DMac’s 2014 TAC Grand Final/Final Series / Sinc’s – 2014 TAC Cup v Murray in Wangaratta (18p in Q1)

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

Jack Sinclair (Rookie selection) has already played 44 games in three seasons.

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

Critical. Over the course of three to four interviews, you really get a great insight into the player and person. You get a lot out of meeting the family and going into the family home. 

How would you describe Tony Elshaug?

Hard working and talkative