Eric Hipwood realised his dreams when he was drafted to the Brisbane Lions in the 2015 NAB AFL National Draft.

The 18-year-old Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy product was drafted with Pick No. 14 after Brisbane decided to match Richmond’s bid.

“I’m stoked with it, it’s unreal,” Hipwood told LionsTV after being drafted.

“I’ve dreamt of this moment and it’s finally come.

“I can’t wait to get into the pre-season and get to know all the boys.”

Meet Eric Hipwood

Hipwood’s selection by the Brisbane Lions wasn’t a certainty with newly introduced rules around drafting Academy players raising anxiety levels in the Hipwood household.

“No, I wouldn’t say I was pretty confident,” said Hipwood.

“When Richmond bid on me I was pretty nervous and it felt like it took forever.

“And they (Brisbane Lions) finally said they’d match the bid - the moment was just surreal.”

The transition to the club will be smooth sailing as Hipwood played most of the 2015 NEAFL Season for the Lions’ Reserves.

“It’s going to be pretty easy for me, I already live in Brisbane,” said Hipwood.

“I already know all the boys and just feel like I’ll be another player now and hopefully just crack into pre-season, go really hard and see what I can do.

“Hopefully I’ll play Round 1 or play in the NAB Cup.”

Read: 2015 Draft Wrap

Keays was joined by his Queensland under-18 teammate, Ben Keays, who was drafted at Pick No. 24 after the Brisbane Lions matched the Western Bulldogs.

“I’m very happy for him.

“Hopefully we can go into the pre-season and just work really hard and get into the top 8 at the end of the year.”