It all started on draft day in 2005 when I was picked out by Collingwood with the fifth selection, although my internet dropped out and I never heard my named called out by the club.
Shortly after it happened I had messages from Scott Burns, Nathan Buckley and James Clement and other future team mates, and even the president and coach got in touch with me, so it was a pretty big thrill.
My first day at training was a Monday morning, and we basically got to meet all our new team mates and coaching staff, as well as fellow 2005 draftees Danny Stanley, Ryan Cook and John Anthony.
For those first few days I don't think my former Gippsland Power team mate Dale Thomas and I really left each other's side, and we were just shocked at how big some of the players were. I remember being measured up on my first day and I was 78 kilograms dripping wet and 188 centimetres tall.
About a month after I been at the club I was struck down with glandular fever and was told to take a month off, so I headed back home to Sale feeling pretty sick and disappointed that I was falling so far behind.
By the time I got back to the club we were a month away from the start of the season and I was only allowed to walk laps at training, and that's when I realised how hard I would have to work to catch up and give myself a chance to play an AFL game in my first year.
After building up my form at VFL during the first half of the season, I finally made my debut in round 10 when we played the Brisbane Lions at the MCG.
I received plenty of support from players and coaches in the lead up to the game and I wasn't very nervous, more excited. The first time I came on the ground was for Bucks. I had to go forward and play half forward with Brad Scott, who is now one of our assistant coaches, picking me up.
I remember slipping away from him and Bucks found me with a great pass inside 50 for my first kick, which luckily enough went through the middle. Kicking that goal was definitely the highlight in my first year, as well as getting nine games under my belt.
The 2007 finals series last year was the biggest highlight of my career to date. It was so much fun and the pressure of do or die games was intense. I can't remember a time in my sporting career where I have felt so much excitement, and I just really loved that feeling we got after those two wins. Then, after we went down to Geelong by five points, I went from having one of the best feelings of my life to experiencing one of the biggest disappointments.
Representing Victoria in the Hall of Fame game earlier this year was extremely enjoyable and proved a great way to meet and talk to some of the great players and captains of the other football clubs. The way everyone got along, and to put on the spectacle we did, was a credit to everyone involved. I just hope it can stay a regular feature of the game because for a young player like me it was a fantastic opportunity.
I must acknowledge that every win I'm a part of is a highlight, because there is nothing better than experiencing a win in front of a huge crowd, and then singing the song with the boys.
Hopefully I'll get to experience that feeling many more times in my career, starting with this Saturday night.
