It’s only a matter of months since Will Phillips celebrated his 18th birthday, but despite his young age, North’s prized recruit is as driven as they come.

Already praised for his leadership traits and professional work ethic at junior level, Phillips is now hoping to make an immediate impact at Arden Street.

“I’m going into the club with an intention,” he told The Herald Sun.

“I’ll probably suss out the place in the first couple of days and then really try to associate myself with the best players and the most professional players.

“And then that hopefully leads me down the right path and playing in Round 1, but I will just take it step by step.”

While Phillips received a shock when he was handed the number 29 guernsey by Brent Harvey, it wasn’t his first meeting with the games record holder.

“I did train with him (Harvey) last year when he helped out at Vic Metro but I didn’t know he was still so involved with the Roos,” Phillips said.

“It’s an absolute honour and it’s big shoes to fill, but no doubt he’ll be with me every step of the way because he works with the first and second year players pretty closely.

“I’m looking forward to that opportunity and I’ll do my best to make the most of it.”