A decision 12 months ago to move to Melbourne to chase an AFLW career has paid off for Miller after she was named in Richmond's team for Friday night's season opener against Carlton.

Her selection completes a remarkable journey with the 24-year-old never having played the sport seriously until two years ago.

Miller spent last season with Richmond's VFLW team and was then selected by the club for their inaugural AFLW season.

She has impressed enough over the pre-season to be selected for the Tigers in the AFLW season opener at Ikon Park.

"It actually feels really surreal, to be honest," Miller said.

"It doesn't feel like it's real at the moment. I suppose that will change in under 48 hours time but it doesn't feel real. (On Wednesday) when I got the news from Tom Hunter when he called me, that was a two minute chat I'll never forget."

Miller said the phone call sparked a moment of reflection on what has been a quick but successful journey to date.

"I guess I had a bit of reflection on how it's been a whirlwind trip, I'm quite proud of myself, to where I started to where I am now," she said.

"Hard work pays off. I'm definitely very happy to be about to debut for the mighty Tiges."

Miller's parents, Greg and Jenny, will be in attendance, along with the rest of her family and some friends.

She is unsure how she will feel as the big moment approaches.

"I've never been in this position," she said.

"I do remember playing in the elimination final in the VFLW last year and I just went out wanting to have fun, realising it is a privilege to play for the black and yellow. So I think I'll take that same attitude out on Friday. Make sure I soak it in but then also play my role. I'm there to do a job so make sure I do it well."

Miller has established herself as a tough player with a strong ability to intercept mark and she will form part of Richmond's defensive group.

"Down in the backpack where we do all the hard work and no glory, as they say," she said with a laugh.

"In the practice matches I've been playing a bit deeper but with the conversations I've had lately I think they might want to get me across half-back, a bit higher to allow me to get my hands on the ball a bit more."

The Tigers have warmed up for round one with a loss to Western Bulldogs in an unofficial trial, before comfortably accounting for West Coast in a more serious hit-out.

Miller is not exactly sure what to expect.

"I think looking at the team list yesterday, there's about 17 of us who have come from the VFLW and about 12 or 13 who are going to play our first game so obviously it's a very inexperienced team but I also think Carlton won't really know what we're going to throw at them either, because of that," she said.

"I think maybe what we lack in experience we'll make up in energy and enthusiasm."

READ MORE