In the lead up to the 2017 NAB AFL Draft being held in Sydney, we’re taking a look back at some of the GIANTS Then and Now ahead of the next batch walking into the club.

Rory Lobb

Pick 29, 2013 NAB AFL Draft

Before the Draft: “With a basketball background, Lobb is a late addition to the footy ranks but has some talent. He's raw, but a huge guy and can be an imposing target in attack when he moves down there.” - Callum Twomey, AFL.com.au

“Developing ruckman has been a late-season sensation in the WAFL. Bombers need a third big man. Comes from basketball background and can take a grab up forward.” - Jay Clark and Sam Landsberger, Herald Sun (Predicted Lobb to be selected by Essendon with pick 26).

The day he walked into the club

"He was a big man, with a big presence and he was a confident young man being a bit more mature than the other draftees."

"It probably took a bit of time for him to work out what level he had to train at to get to where he needs to be to achieve what he wants as an AFL footballer." Brett Hand, GIANTS Head of Development and Welfare.

In the four years since: Twomey was right, Lobb was raw at the time of the 2013 NAB AFL Draft but boy are we pleased with how he’s developed in the seasons since.

While his breakthrough season of 2016 came as a key forward (kicking 29 goals) and back up ruck, Lobb proved in 2017 he has the wherewithal to become the GIANTS’ number one ruckman.

The 24-year-old played a lone hand in the ruck in the GIANTS’ semi and preliminary finals this year, recording 39 and 31 hit outs respectively.

Witness dreams become reality by registering to attend the 2017 NAB AFL Draft at Sydney Showgrounds on Friday November 24. Click here to register for FREE tickets.