YEARS of hard work and dedication will be rewarded on Sunday when Temora’s Jake Barrett makes his AFL debut.
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After almost two years on Greater Western Sydney’s list, Barrett has been picked to debut when the Giants take on Melbourne in Sunday’s final round clash at Etihad Stadium.
Barrett has been a model of consistency in the Giants reserves this year and has been rewarded with senior selection.
Barrett, 19, said he is full of excitement ahead of the big day.
“It feels great, I’m excited and can’t wait to get out there with the boys,” Barrett said.
“Leon (Cameron) rang me on Tuesday but told me to keep it under wraps for a bit.
“I was obviously over the moon, I wanted to tell everyone I was that excited.”
Most to debut before him have always dreamed of the moment as a kid.
Barrett is a different case, having grown up in Temora with aspirations to follow in the footsteps of second cousin Trent Barrett and play NRL.
Barrett crossed over to Australian rules in under 16s and made an immediate mark, eventually going on to get drafted by the Giants.
He said it has taken a lot of work to get to Sunday’s debut.
“It’s what I’ve been trying to work to this year and last year,” he said.
“It’s taken a lot of time, effort and commitment over the two years and it’s starting to pay off.
“I feel privileged and happy to get a game.”
Barrett is yet to be informed of his role against the Demons but has spent the season playing reserve grade in the Giants reserves.
He will be joined by Leeton’s Jacob Townsend, who will play his first AFL game for the year.
“I’m not sure where I’ll be yet, maybe I’ll go through the middle but I’ll do my best and I’m looking forward to it,” Barrett said.
“If we play like we did last week then we should go good but we’ll have to go out there and defend strongly right from the start.”
A strong contingent of family and friends will make the trip from Temora on Sunday to support Barrett.
His parents, Graeme and Elizabeth, and siblings Jordan and Lachlan will be leading the Barrett cheer squad.
“I’ve got plenty of family and friends coming,” he said.
‘It’s been great to get a lot of messages of support, I’m really looking forward to it.”
It will be GWS’ final game of the year with the Giants’ still capable of finishing anywhere from ninth to 12th spot on the AFL ladder, pending Sunday’s result.