Wednesday night was a ‘massive step up’ for Nick Coffield and a massive step forward for the young gun who St Kilda selected with pick No. 8 in last November’s NAB AFL Draft.

The 18-year-old was of the Saints’ shining lights in their 22-point loss to Carlton in the JLT Community Series at Ikon Park, collecting 20 disposals, five marks, five rebound 50s and four inside 50s.

“It was pretty enjoyable, but it was disappointing not to get the win,” Coffield told saints.com.au following Wednesday night’s loss to Carlton.

“It was a massive step up from the match simulation and the under-18’s last year, but I really enjoyed it.”

Coffield played across half-back for most of Wednesday night, in a position he earned All-Australian selection in last year’s under-18 championships and where he is most likely to start his time in the AFL.

“I played most of my time there last year and I think they want me to play at half-back and use my rebound and kick,” Coffield said.

“So probably that or I might move up onto a wing. But I guess just wherever the coach puts me.”

With Coffield and the player the Saints chose one pick ahead of him, Hunter Clark, set to be linked for the remainder of their careers, the former Northern Knights skipper said he wouldn’t want to share the journey with anyone else.

“Me and Hunter are pretty close and we’re about to move in with each other as well, so we get around each other a lot,” he said.

“Hunts played really well, kicked two goals and I wouldn’t rather share this experience with anyone else.”