Exell had been unsuccessful in his bid to make the Bendigo Pioneers’ list and he spent 2015 playing full-forward for Sandhurst under-18s.

An out of the blue, off-season phone call from Bendigo Pioneers talent manager Steve Sharp changed Exell’s priorities.

“I saw Jack do a couple of really good things in an under-age game at the QEO,’’ Sharp said. “It stuck in my mind… and when I came on board (with the Pioneers) we had an opportunity to play five 19-year-old’s on our list and I threw Jack’s name up.

“To his credit he’s taken the opportunity.”

Exell has transformed himself from a full-forward at BFNL level to a creative defender with the Pioneers.

His creativity off half-back and intercept marking ability has caught the eye of talent scouts.

In two weeks time Exell will be part of Geelong’s backline in the Cats’ VFL clash with Frankston.

“I heard a whisper midway through the season that I might get a chance to play in the VFL, but no team was mentioned,’’ Exell said.

“Then I got a phone call from Troy Selwood (Geelong VFL manager) congratulating me about getting a game with Geelong.

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

Exell’s father Gavin played 53 games for Geelong between 1987-1991, kicking 111 goals.

Much like his old man, Jack knows where the big sticks are. He kicked 38 goals in 14 games for the Dragons’ under-18s last year.

“I’d never played in the backline in my life before this year,’’ Exell said.

“I used to love running around kicking goals, but I prefer playing in the backline now. You can see the game unfolding in front of you. The role suits me more than I expected it would.”

Exell had a standout game for the Pioneers against the Dandenong Stingrays, collecting 35 possessions across half-back.

The left-footer said his maturity as a footballer has seen him reassess his goals.

“The TAC Cup is quick and the VFL will be another level again,’’ he said.

“This year has given me the confidence to know I can play TAC Cup level and I hope to try out at a VFL club next year.”