Like every youngster who nominated for the national draft, Xavier College student James Davies found it to be a harrowing ordeal.

"I was watching the draft at our place in Melbourne with some family and friends and just hoping that Essendon would pick me up," Davies recalled today.

"It was very nerve-wracking and as it got closer to pick number 17 it was hard to watch. When my name was read out I just sat in the corner with my hands on my head - it was unbeleivable."

"I had a fair idea they would pick me up but I suppose you can never be certain - it's a bit of a meat market. It was a great feeling - I've had a smile on my face for the past week."

For the life-long Bomber fan it was something he will never forget - the day his dream came true and he became an Essendon player.

Davies has played in the first XVIII at Xavier College for the past two seasons and was the team captain in the premiership side of 2000.

"We had a very good side and went through the season undefeated to win the premiership - we won most games comfortably," Davies said.

Davies played the season in the centre while Xavier vice-captain and Essendon's second draft selection Ted Richards played at full forward and centre half-forward for most of the season.

"I only got to one Essendon match this season because of school commitments - that was when Essendon played Carlton at the MCG," Davies said.

"I met Sheeds when Essendon was training at Colonial Stadium earlier this season but that is the only time I've met him. I got to meet the coaching staff and other people in the football department earlier this week."

With two exams still to go to complete his studies Davies has plenty on his mind before he settles down to try and make his mark at AFL level.

"I can't wait to get these exams out of the way at concentrate on football. I'm looking forward to meeting the other players," he said.

"I haven't really set myself any goals for next season - if I happened to get a couple of senior games then that would be great."

But Davies might not have to wait long to put on the red and black - the Ansett Cup begins in February and there is every chance that is when Bomber supporters will get their first look at the club's number one draft selection.