Fremantle forward Tobyn Murray will make his AFL debut against Carlton at Marvel Stadium on Saturday 22 August.
Murray never let go of his AFL dream despite being overlooked in two drafts before being selected from Geelong in the VFL with pick No.40.
Speaking to the Fremantle media team, Murray said the long journey to his AFL debut isn’t one he would change for the world.
“Getting drafted is awesome, but it's just the first step in the door, and my mindset was always to come in and work twice as hard and have that dream stay there for a while.
“It's been a bit of a roller coaster of emotions, but I'm grateful for everything.
“I've worked hard for it, and I wouldn't take anything back because it will make me a better person and footballer in the future.”
Now 21 and just nine months into his journey with the Club, Murray said he wasted no time getting to work at Fremantle, leaning on those around him in a bid to get better every day.
“Michael Frederick I've leaned on really closely. I’m close with him outside and inside the Club, but also some of the younger boys that I was drafted with,” Murray said.
“Adam Sweid and Chris Scerri, these boys, when you're drafted together, it's pretty special and you sort of experience everything together.
“There's also Isaiah Dudley I'm close with as well, and these senior boys that are playing heaps of football, it’s good to lean on them.
“Chris Mayne, my development coach, has been unreal for me - getting me ready for the opportunity when it comes.”
Come Saturday, when Fremantle face the Blues, Murray will look to rely on the elements of his game and his role‑first attitude that have held him in good stead and earned him his opportunity at the highest level.
“Personally, I like to bring a bit of speed and power in the contest,” Murray said.
“Do what's required of me and do what I've been doing all year to get me a game.”
Fremantle’s full team of 23 will be announced on Thursday 20 August at 4.20pm WST at fremantlefc.com.au.
Fremantle and Carlton will commence at 11.15am WST on Saturday 22 August at Marvel Stadium.
