Melbourne has handed Jai Culley a club debut after outstanding form in the VFL, and he will take on his former side, West Coast on Saturday at Marvel Stadium.
Culley was initially drafted by the Eagles in the 2022 Mid-Season Draft with Pick 1, and after 12 games across two and a half seasons, was delisted.
The Dandenong Stingrays product was then invited down to the Demons' reserves side in an attempt to regain his spot on a senior list.
Following the long-term ACL injury to Melbourne youngster Andy Moniz-Wakefield, a vacancy opened at the Victorian club, which Culley grabbed with both hands through the SSP.
"Nothing is ever guaranteed to get a list spot," Culley said.
"It didn't go my way at West Coast, and I had my doubts along the way.
"Things sort of fell my way, and luckily enough, I got a spot. I'm here now and get to face the old boys, which I'm bloody keen for."
Culley has played 12 games for the Casey Demons, averaging 17.5 disposals, five marks and 3.8 tackles.
His past fortnight has seen season-best performances, and ultimately forcing coach Simon Goodwin's hand at the selection table.
Jumping for JAI 🥹🎉 Jai Culley earns his chance.
📝 | https://t.co/PEOgKTq9dV pic.twitter.com/Tj4Z77rMku
— Melbourne Demons (@melbournefc) July 31, 2025
Despite playing largely through the midfield at the Eagles, Culley has spent more time on the wing, adding more "strings to (his) bow".
"The wing roles a bit new for me, but having those two strings to my bow, being able to go inside and also playing the wing just makes me a bit more versatile," Culley said.
"Hopefully I can show that to all the fans this week."
Culley will follow Jack Henderson, Matthew Jefferson, Aidan Johnson, Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay as the club's 2025 debutants.
