Next year he will play in the VFL and, possibly, even the AFL after being taken by Melbourne in the AFL rookie draft last week.

The 21-year-old made it to AFL level the hard way, impressing the Demons scouts over the past two EFL seasons, in which he has kicked more than 70 goals a year.

Despite training with the Demons for two weeks leading into the rookie draft, Williams said he had not expected to be drafted.

"I was just watching the live draft on my phone," he said.

"It was a bit overwhelming to see my name on there.

"There was no guarantees I would be picked up and even if they said they would pick me, you hear a lot of stories about people getting promises, so you can't expect it to happen."

Williams paid tribute to his mother and

uncle, who have played pivotal roles in his life.

"My uncle has been a father figure to me. He was pretty emotional, and so was mum."

Williams said he was getting used to the step-up in training but was enjoying the chance to be a professional footballer.

He hasn't decided whether he will be able to continue as an apprentice carpenter, although he only needs to complete his work hours to finish his apprenticeship.

Williams aims to play good football at VFL level next year and hopefully earn an elevation to the Demons senior list. "I just want to give myself the best chance. I'm not going to walk straight into the Melbourne side. I have to establish myself in the group and play good footy at VFL level."

The new Demon hopes his path to AFL level inspires other EFL stars to make their move towards the AFL ranks. "If you want it you can still get it even from local footy - that dream is only over when a player wants it to be."