IT'S been a long wait, but in just over a week, John Butcher's childhood dream will finally come true.

The Maffra teenager is all but guaranteed to be picked up by an AFL club in next Thursday's national draft.

"I've had a footy in my hands from the point that I could walk, so I'm starting to get a bit nervous and excited at the same time," Butcher said.

The 197cm key forward, noted for his contested marks and agility for his size, has long been touted as a top draft prospect.

At the age of 14 he was selected in the All-Australian under-15 team and has been closely watched by recruiters since.

This season Butcher, 18, came under fire for his up-and-down form and kicking style, but he remains unfazed by the scrutiny.

He admits his endurance was compromised by hip surgery in December, which prevented him completing a pre-season.

"That made things pretty hard, but you've got to listen to the people that matter - your coaches, your family - and not worry about what else is being said," Butcher said.

"My goalkicking stats weren't too bad and I think my kicking style improved this year."

Butcher realised another dream in September when he played in a premiership for Maffra in just his second game of senior football.

He booted an unflattering 1.7 on the day, but was still named among the Eagles' best players for his work rate.

"It was just an awesome feeling. It was probably the best way to finish a year that had been a bit up and down," he said.

Next Thursday, Butcher will travel to Melbourne for the draft, flanked by his father, Wayne, and mother, Sue.

The trio won't have to wait long to find out where Butcher is headed - most experts have pegged him as a top-10 pick, with many tipping Port Adelaide as his new home.

"It's been a long year and a long wait, but I'm definitely not complaining," Butcher said.