Josh Deluca may have been nervous heading into his debut game, but once the ball was bounced it was business as usual for the small forward. 

The 21-year-old had an impact on the game early, forcing a Geelong turnover that resulted in Freo’s first goal for the game.

“Once you start the game obviously your nerves are through the roof but once the ball bounces and the game's on you get back to what you know and try and play your best footy,” Deluca said.

“Getting in a few touches early and a tackle or something just really helps to settle the nerves and I just wanted to get involved as much as I could from the start of the game.” 

Playing in a Freo forward line along side Hayden Ballantyne and Michael Walters only added to the experience and Deluca said the duo were vocal throughout the game.

“It was really good to have those guys down there with me, they are good leaders and they helped me out at stoppages,” Deluca said.

“They were really supportive all day.”

It has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride for the young forward who was delisted in both 2015 and 2016 only to be picked up again via the Rookie Draft both years. 

Deluca’s debut was a direct result of the hard work he has put in over the last four years on the list and the resilience he has shown.

“It’s obviously really disappointing when you get taken off the list, but I’m really appreciative of the club and the opportunity I have been given,” Deluca said.

“I had eight family members come over to watch me play and I spoke to them after the game in the rooms.

“They were really proud and happy to see me out there, they know how long and hard I have worked for the opportunity.

“I couldn’t have had any more support from them and I don’t think they could be any prouder.

“I really appreciate my family and everything they have done for me, it makes it that much better having your family there by your side.

“It all starts now, I just want to continue to improve and play my best footy.”