Former Sydney player Wayne Schwass told The Standard Rohan, 18, was a coup for his former club, which drafted the youngster at pick No. 6.

"He is one of the most exciting players I have watched," Schwass said.

"He has pace and that gives him a big tick against his name. He is quick player and Sydney hasn't had that sort of pace for a long time."

Schwass, who played for South Warrnambool before launching his AFL career, was in Warrnambool with football writer Craig Hutchison to promote a new regional AFL radio broadcast program.

Hutchison was also quick to praise Rohan, who he described as "electric" and tipped him to carve a solid AFL career.

"I used to go through the (TAC Cup) tapes on Saturdays last year just to watch him," Hutchison said.

"He was just electric and they way he could turn quickly - it was just unbelievable.

"He'll end up being a cult figure up in Sydney with that red hair. He'll do well."

Despite receiving strong praises, Rohan remained level headed about tonight's clash - also his AFL debut.

He said it was a lifelong dream, which was yet to sink in. "Hopefully I'll get a few touches and a few kicks," the teenager said. "It's just a dream to be going out there.

"Everyone's welcomed me to the club and they're a great bunch of blokes and I love being there," he said.

Rohan was drafted to the AFL with best mate, fellow Cobden player Ben Cunnington who was selected by North Melbourne at pick No. 5. Schwass, who played for the Kangaroos before his stint with the Swans, said Cunnington was fitting in well with the club.

"He's the sort of fella who gets on with what he has to do with no fuss," Schwass said.

"He works hard and should do well."

Hutchison was equally impressed with Cunnington.