AFL Rising Star Nick Daicos wasn't the No.1 draft pick and didn't make the All-Australian squad but he says snubs don't drive him amid an extraordinary debut season.
Ahead of last year's draft, Daicos made no secret of his desire to be the first selection, but Collingwood weren't forced to match a bid until pick No.4.
Then this year, he was tipped to earn selection to the All-Australian preliminary squad.
Once again, Daicos was denied, as older brother Josh made the extended squad.
But there was no denying the 19-year-old the AFL Rising Star award, as he claimed a unanimous victory on Wednesday night.
"I was still very grateful to be picked up at No.4. For me, that's not really sliding too much," he told reporters on Thursday.
"Pick No.4 was a great effort for me and I was very proud to go pick No.4. Just to get on a list for me, was amazing.
"I guess you're always going to feel as though you got a point to prove, regardless of what happens or what the scenario is, you just want to perform at your best.
"So my main aim this year has just been to prove to everyone that I belong here."
So far, he's done more than just belong.
Daicos has averaged 26 disposals and nearly four rebound-50s across half-back, with the highlight his 40-disposal, three-goal effort against Adelaide in round 18.
He's also helped Collingwood climb the ladder from 17th to fourth under new coach Craig McRae, and is about to commence a debut finals campaign.
"It's amazing. It's been everything and more," Daicos said.
"The main thing is the team's going well, so as long as the team keeps winning the enjoyment will be there.
"Hopefully in finals we can win a couple and get through to the big one.
"We're not really surprised (about our rise) because we did put in the work and we've always had the belief that we belong in the finals."
Daicos has done it all wearing Collingwood's No.35, which is traditionally handed over to the Magpies' top draft pick each year but is best known for the heroics of his father, Peter Daicos.
He admitted he'd like to keep the famous number in the family.
"Yeah, I'd love to keep the No.35," he said.
"We'll just have that conversation at the end of the year.
"We've got a lot more on our mind at the moment than that number."
