Just two weeks on from making one boyhood dream a reality, another one is set to take place for 24-year-old Eagles draftee Tom McCarthy.
The mature-age prospect plucked from near obscurity as the number one pick in this year's AFL Mid-Season Draft will make his AFL debut against Carlton on Sunday, just a fortnight after earning his spot on an AFL list.
McCarthy's draft stocks soared in a breakout campaign on Richmond's VFL list, with his dash and dare off halfback a key trait, averaging 22.4 disposals for the Tigers before being drafted.
The Dingley product has continued that form in the WAFL across the last fortnight, averaging 23 touches and five marks, while kicking a goal in one of the games.
McCarthy's consistency has led to earning his spot on the AFL field, despite never considering playing AFL just two seasons ago.
Never playing football through any junior talent pathways, McCarthy was only on the radar of state league level before 2024, playing local football for Highett in Division 2 of the Southern Football Netball League.
McCarthy, who has said he expected to be stacking shelves at Woolworths for the foreseeable future, expressed that the selection call doesn't "feel real" after his sudden surge to the top flight.
"It's so cool. I only got here two weeks ago, and to think I'll be playing AFL this week is just any kid's dream," McCarthy said.
"I know I'm living it now, but it doesn't actually feel real yet, but it will hit me on Sunday.
"I've got to know the players well and starting to create some good relationships now, so I'm settling in nicely.
"I love the West Coast fans. I went to the game the other week, and it was just an amazing atmosphere.
"To think I'll be playing in front of them, they're so loud and supportive, it will just be an awesome opportunity."
McCarthy's debut against the Blues kicks off in the final timeslot of Round 14 on Sunday evening.
