IT HAS been five years since Williamstown sharp-shooter Patrick Rose strutted his stuff for AFL recruiters.

Back then, the 17-year-old Western Jet who fronted up at the AFL’s state screening was lacking in some key areas.

“I just think as a bottom-age player, my kicking and decision-making really counted against me,” he said.

“As time goes on, you get a lot more confident. I am a really good kick now, so I am hoping clubs will take the opportunity and give me a crack at it.”

Five years later and the young Jet has grown into an influential Seagull, finally cracking it for another shot at the big time after being invited to state screening this weekend.

“I am looking forward to it,” he said.

“Hopefully, I’ll test well and put my name on a few recruiters’ lists.”

Players invited to state screening have to be nominated by an AFL club – something, which has given Rose hope going forward.

“To get nominated (means) a couple of clubs are looking at me, so hopefully I will test well and enhance my chances.”

While the AFL remains a goal for Rose, he is realistic when it comes to the harsh world of recruiting.

“There are nerves, but I am very happy working as a carpenter now.

“It’s out of my hands, I can’t do anything now apart from try and test well, and once that day is over it’s completely out of my hands.

“If I impress, then I impress and if not, I move on. I am hoping that a club gives me an opportunity.”

Rose has had another solid year in the VFL rotating through the Williamstown midfield, but spending the majority of his time in the forward line, finishing fourth in the VFL’s goal kicking and scoring a spot in the Team of the Year.

“I think I was consistent again without being outstanding,” he said of his 2009 season.

“Last year, I played more of a permanent forward but this year, I had quite a few games in the midfield.

“I finished off with 48 goals, which as a small forward is not a bad effort, I guess.”

Werribee ball magnet Michael Barlow and Williamstown’s Dane Rampe will also attend the state screening this weekend.