Lloyd Meek expects it to be a ‘momentous’ occasion when he makes his debut at the MCG in round one against Melbourne on Saturday.
The ruckman is in his fourth year in the AFL system and has finally broken through for a debut after impressive performances in Freo’s pre-season games.
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While playing at the MCG is a dream come true for any footballer, the 22-year-old said he has plenty of reasons not to be overawed by the occasion.
“I’ve played there once in an exhibition match in an (U18) all stars game before the 2016 Grand Final between Richmond and Adelaide, which was a pretty special day,” Meek said.
“We’ve already spoken about what the MCG brings and our expectations … and crowds are back and everything.
“All of that is new to me and it’s something that I’ll be prepared for by the time I get there.
“That experience (of playing at the MCG on Grand Final day) helps but I think another huge one is that I’ve got 21 other boys that all wear the anchor running out with me. That gives me the most confidence out of all.”
A country Victorian, Meek expects to see his family make the drive from their farm in Mininera to Melbourne for the clash.
“They’ll be there! It’s about a two and a half hour drive,” Meek said.
“I reckon Dad will be about two days early, he’s that excited!
“They’ll be stoked for me and they’ve ridden every bump of this journey with me and, hopefully, they can be there for many more games.”
After holding his own against Nic Naitanui in the AAMI Community Series, Meek has a daunting task in taking on Demons star Max Gawn.
Meek had the best preparation possible on Wednesday, playing on Freo legend Aaron Sandilands in an 18 on 18 scrimmage.
“JL (senior coach Justin Longmuir) convinced him to pull the size 18s back on and it was a great training session today,” Meek said.
“What a lot of people don’t see is the constant help, advice and support he’s giving me, even out on the track. We’re doing drills and competing against each other and he’s constantly giving me tips and helping me learn the way.
“He’s another one of (many) who have really been behind me and helped me get here.”
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