Drew Lloyd (pictured) is kicking goals, literally.

A beloved local boy and mainstay of the Balranald Roos, Drew has made his presence felt.

Throughout the entirety of his football career to sate, Drew has racked up some impressive stats.

He has played 247games, 238 total goals and been voted Best Player 108 times.

The talented forward has made a name for himself with his elite skills, goal-kicking ability, and sharp footy sense and judgement.

His great presence has earned him a spot at VFL club Port Melbourne, with him choosing Rochester as his home club.

If there could be anything more important than footy however, it could possibly be Drew’s humble nature and love of his home town.

This love is reciprocated, with Balranald cheering Drew on regardless if he is wearing the Roos blue and white or another team’s colours.

“I spoke to one of the Balranald coaches and they were very encouraging,” 22-year-old Drew said.

“They told me to go for it, saying I have the talent and need to do these things while you’re young.”

A couple of clubs in the region had expressed interest in Drew coming on board, and asked Drew what he wanted, what his aspirations were.

Expressing his desire to reach state level, one of the clubs mentioned their connections, and before he knew it, he had a two-week trial with Port Melbourne.

After the trial he was given a 12-month contract.

He is understandably over the moon with this.

“Hopefully I will be able to put my best foot forward and keep working towards the big leagues,” said Drew, forever humble.

Drew’s biggest supporters have to be his family. Grandmother Linda Nelson follows every move Drew makes, and he is in constant contact with his family.

He is in Melbourne, having keenly hit the ground running to secure employment, and get into a good work life football balancing routine.

“I worked for the Canally Almond Farm for four years or so, and they were also very encouraging, telling me to go for it while I am young. That is the best advice I could give to any person in my shoes, or thinking about making a big change or taking a risk; do it. At least you’ll have done it, instead of regretting it later.”

Congratulations Drew you are so inspiring! Not only do you have the talent to make it big, you have defined your dreams and are doggedly pursuing them.

The worst thing about not taking a chance is always wondering what could have been.

I just hope Drew remembers he said I could chat to him again as he makes it further and further up the ladder.