Cooper Murley mistimed his bathroom break during Thursday night's NAB AFL Draft and didn't hear his name called at pick 49.

As he emerged from the bathroom it became immediately apparent his childhood dream had been realised - he just had no idea which club he was joining.

"I was actually in the toilet at the moment my name was called," Murls explained.

"Walking out (of the bathroom) and having all my family jumping all over me is something I won't forget anytime soon - it was by far one of the most surreal moments of my life.

"I had a pretty good idea about what had happened with everyone going mental.

"Before I went to the toilet I didn't actually look at who had the next pick, so I was trying to get around people to the TV to see who I'd been picked up by.

"When I saw it was Collingwood I was rapt."

Three days later he jumped on a plane to Melbourne.

"My girlfriend and my family have been very understanding, they know this is something I've wanted for so long," Murls said.

"There were a few tears at the airport on Sunday afternoon but they're so happy for me.

"I have the pleasure of living with Taylor Adams - since me and Harvey (Harrison) rocked up at his place he's been so welcoming."

On day one at the club this week, the 18-year-old said his new reality had finally started to sink in.

"Being around Pendles, Howey, Maynard... you watch those guys on TV and to be out there training with them and to see their standards and their work ethic at training is eye opening," he said.

"I want to implement that into my game as well.

"I hope Pies fans will see me as an excitement machine and I want to build on my strengths - my speed, agility and endurance."

Excitement machine seems an apt description for Murley, who wins his own ball, has the acceleration to compete at the highest level and combines his pace with a high work rate.