The interview process at the AFL Draft Combine can be a daunting one.

But apparently some are more intimidating than others.

As I awaited my chance to be a fly on the wall during one of the Lions’ recent interviews, I couldn’t help but overhear one young player recount his own horrifying experience.

This particular player was still in a wave of disbelief having just been grilled by one club for reasons that he was obviously unaware.

Fortunately he seemed mature enough to deal with the type of confronting feedback that could easily have broken most 17-year-olds.

Maybe said club was trialling a good cop, bad cop technique.

There are countless stories about how different clubs have approached the interview process in the past – one of which includes a player being asked to describe in specific detail the steps towards making his favourite recipe.

There is obviously method to this madness, as clubs find new ways to challenge the psyche of potential draftees.

The Lions don’t use any gimmicks, rather focus on the key issues that might determine whether or not the player is a suitable fit for Brisbane.

The interview subject on this particular occasion enters the room and is met by a host of senior Lions staff – including the likes of new Senior Coach Justin Leppitsch, General Manager of Football Operations Dean Warren, and National Talent Manger Rob Kerr.

But a friendly introduction from Recruiting Manager Stephen Conole instantly breaks the ice and helps make the subject feel comfortable in what would otherwise be an intimidating environment for any young man.

The subject is widely regarded as one of the country’s top young prospects, so can probably expect to hear his name read out on Draft day – it’s now just a matter of where he lands.

However, you can still detect a hint of nerves as he responds to questions surrounding his personal life and football background.

No doubt he feels a bit like a broken record, having relayed the same information onto 17 other clubs, but maintains a friendly and personal demeanour.

The Lions’ line of questioning shifts to his greatest challenges – both on and off the field – and the steps he might have taken to overcome them.

One significant challenge the subject in question would have to overcome should he eventually be drafted to the Lions is moving away from a family he says is “very close”.

The issue of homesickness is a serious one – as highlighted in recent times – and the Club is determined to ensure their potential draftees are capable of adapting to a new environment.

Given the interviewee is most likely to head interstate regardless, his response is expected.

“I’d look forward to making the move,” he says before adding that he previously hasn’t spent much time away from home.

He seems genuine, but I guess only time can really tell.

He goes on to say that his main goal for 2014 would be to earn the respect of his teammates and coaches. The panel is noticeably pleased with the answer. 

The process continues, and the subject seems to warm up with every passing minute.

What’s most impressive is that he isn’t afraid to also direct questions back to the Lions’ panel, interested to know their opinion on where he is best suited to play.

Leppitsch lets the recruiting staff drive most of the discussion, but listens and watches intently to assess the character of an individual who could play a key role in the future success of his team.

The new coach chimes in every now and then with some gags to help lighten the mood. Some, surprisingly, are even met with laughter.

It’s quite obvious by the end of the 20-minute interview that the Lions are impressed, but whether or not the player ends up being drafted to the Club is another story.

The Lions interviewed a total of 48 players over the five-day period, 90% of which will probably end up at opposition clubs in 2014.