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While their college basketball careers are over since leading Northern Arizona to the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament Championship finals, center Len Springs and forward Zachary Reynolds took some time out in April to learn Australian Football.

For Springs – who is known for his shot blocking ability, and Reynolds - who excels in rebounding, this was a new experience.

"It was definitely something I had never done before or even thought of doing," said Springs. "I didn't expect Australian Football to actually be fun, but you can't judge a book by it's cover."

So, how did the two Lumberjacks get started on this adventure? Well, it was their position coach Matt Dunn who told the two players about it.

"I had received an email about it and I knew they were looking for big men. Preferably, guys 6-foot-9 or taller," said Dunn. "I knew that Len and Zach fit the criteria, so I forwarded the email along."

From there, the two Lumberjacks tried to prepare themselves for the unexpected.   

So, what was it that lies ahead for the two seniors? A three-day scouting combine in Bradenton, Fla.

Springs and Reynolds joined 13 other college basketball players for a lesson in Australian rules football. The players were taught how to tackle, run, block and kick the Australian way as scouts, coaches and executives looked on trying to seek out who could become the next American to find success in the league.

"It's crazy how playing basketball has led to other opportunities, but I can't complain," Springs said. "I had fun."

Some may ask, why did they have to come all the way to the states to find players? Well, the AFL wasn't just looking for any player; it was looking for a player capable of excelling as a ruckman. This position requires someone to very athletic and definitely tall. Very, very tall.

The combine was first organized in 2012 by Jonathan Givony, a basketball scout and consultant. With former combine players currently under contract in the AFL, combine hopefuls saw this as another way to broaden their career choices.

"I never doubted anything," said Reynolds. "I felt like this would only give me more choices with what I wanted to do with my career."

Ruckmens are important because everything starts with them. Vying for the ball after a stoppage is like a jump ball in college basketball. In addition to "jump balls" it is necessary for ruckmen to have a solid endurance and plenty of strength. Unlike basketball, tackling is allowed and welcomed in the AFL.

Despite the difference between college basketball in America and the AFL, being a part of a unique experience such as this is an opportunity that not many people get to experience.

"I enjoyed the trip, as I got to see how a sport, unfamiliar to us in America, is played," Reynolds said. "I met a lot of great guys from all kinds of Division I programs and some good coaches. It was a great experience for me to be a part of."