For Carlton’s 2015 father-son prospect Jack Silvagni, the desire and want to play AFL football has been “instilled” in him since birth.

Speaking at the AFL Draft Combine, which kicked off today at Etihad Stadium, the 17-year-old expressed his desire to play for Carlton, saying it has been a life-long ambition.

“It would be very special, it’s been a dream of mine since I can remember so it’s always what I’ve wanted to do, and hopefully it gets fulfilled,” he said.

The name Silvagni is synonymous with the Navy Blues, with Jack’s father Stephen and grandfather Sergio, both named in Carlton’s Team of the Century.

“Dad played there, my grandfather played there, so it’s never really crossed my mind that I’d play any other sport or doing anything else – I’ve always wanted to play footy for Carlton,” Jack said.

The tall forward has always looked up to his father, and having watched highlights of Stephen Silvagni's career, confesses his dad “goes alright”.

With that in mind, the Oakleigh Chargers player has always taken things in his stride, never feeling like there has been a weight of expectation on his shoulders.

“Throughout my whole football career I‘ve learned to look past that (his last name) and I’ve never felt any pressure from anyone to live up to the way dad played.

“I play a different position and I find myself a different player to him – I’m all for creating my own path.”

There is one similarity however, with the young Silvagni admitting he does don a long sleeve guernsey now and then, but only “when it’s cold”.

With changes to the father-son rules, and Stephen Silvagni removing himself from the recruitment decision surrounding his son, Jack is well aware there are no certainties.

“I understand it’s a really difficult process now with the new bidding system and value being placed on picks, it’s really hard to guarantee any academy player or father-son player that spot anymore,” Jack said.

“I respect whatever happens – and whatever happens, happens – but ultimately I’d love to end up at Carlton.”