This weekend, four of the AFL’s new draftees are set to make their debut, as Essendon, West Coast, and Port Adelaide swiftly integrate their mid-season signings into the line-up.
The spotlight will be on number one draft pick Tom McCarthy, who is set to make his debut for the Eagles. Port Adelaide has confirmed that Mani Liddy will take the field, while Essendon will introduce duo Archer May and Lachlan Blakiston into their squad.
McCarthy’s journey is particularly remarkable; he soared from division two of the Southern Football Netball League (SNFL) in Melbourne last August to being picked up by the Eagles just nine months later.
Tom McCarthy has participated in 2 matches for West Coast’s WAFL team since his drafting. WAFL
His whirlwind journey culminated in a phone call to his parents on Thursday, revealing his upcoming debut against Carlton in Round 14, a moment that West Coast shared on their social media platforms.
“What are you up to on Sunday?” he asked his parents, followed by, “It’s happening.”
“I never imagined I’d be in this position, calling them like this. I usually watch all those (debut) videos, and now I’m actually in one!”
Relocating across the country can be quite intimidating for anyone, but the 24-year-old is currently staying with fellow mid-season recruit Jacob Newton.
“It’s amazing. I arrived just two weeks ago,” McCarthy expressed on the club’s website. “I’m settling in quite well, getting to know all the blokes and building some great relationships. I’m really enjoying it.”
The half-back flanker had a solid run, playing 15 games for Richmond’s VFL team in 2024 and then seven games the following year, which sparked interest from scouts.
This opportunity was facilitated by Richmond’s high-performance coach Jarrad Kay, who also coached Highett in the SFNL.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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