Josh Watts and Josh McGuinness were the only two Tasmanians taken at last Thursday’s 2014 NAB AFL Draft, and coincidentally both are headed to Brisbane.

Watts was taken with the Brisbane Lions’ first live selection at Pick No.65, while McGuinness’ was the second last name read out at the Draft meeting (Pick No.81).

Although they hail from different clubs – Watts was recruited from Glenorchy and McGuinness Lauderdale – both have gotten to know each other well during their time playing with Tasmania’s state U18 squad.

The pair’s drafting means the Lions now boast five Tasmanians on their senior list – with Josh Green (Clarence), Ryan Harwood (Glenorchy), and Mitch Robinson (Lauderdale) the existing three members.  

Watts said the move interstate would be made easier knowing that his ‘good mate’ McGuinness would be joining him.

“I’m just excited and a bit nervous as well to be moving interstate and going up to Brisbane,” he told The Mercury last week.

“But I’m happy to do it, and to be going with Josh McGuinness as well makes it a lot easier.

“We’re really good mates, ‘Macca’ and I, so the hard work’s paid off for both of us.”

The two new Lions will arrive at the Hyundai Centre on Monday before joining their new teammates for a pre-season training camp at Noosa.