It is the moment that all footballers dream of.
The culmination of a lifetime worth of hard work and dedication, leading to that special occasion where you get to run out in front of your family and friends at the elite level for the first time.
It is an opportunity that has arrived for young Cat, Mitch Edwards, after receiving the news on Thursday that he will make his AFL debut on Saturday against Fremantle.
Selected in the 2023 National Draft, the 20-year-old impressed last year at VFL level and put together a brilliant pre-season, putting him firmly in the selection window heading into 2026.
Over 12 months ago, Edwards sat down with Cats Media and discussed what his debut might be like, noting that it will be extra special after growing up as a Geelong supporter.
"There will definitely be a lot of nerves, but I will be pretty excited," Edwards predicted when he sat down with Cats Media.
"Like anyone would say, you just go out there and try your best, play your role and it will be pretty surreal. It would be a dream come true.
"Growing up I was a Geelong fan, I have always dreamed of playing for the club.
"It would be a pretty surreal feeling, but it would be amazing for sure."
Edwards' debut continues the strong Western Australia connection with the Geelong Football Club, adding to a long list of players that have gone on to wear the blue and white Hoops.
One of the most notable names is of course the great Graham "Polly" Farmer, with other iconic names like Mark Bairstow and Ronnie Burns popular players during their time at Geelong.
The Western Australia link also extends into the modern era, with premiership players like Joel Corey and Harry Taylor hailing from the state, while Mitch Duncan also went on to become one of Geelong's greatest ever players.
Even on the 2026 playing list there is plenty of representation from the state, with Lawson Humphries, Jack Martin and Shannon Neale all making the move prior to their AFL careers.
Standing at 206cm tall and looking to make the ruck role his own, Edwards is ready to make his presence felt in his debut against the Dockers at GMHBA Stadium.
Edwards also provided insight into who he might have broken the news to first, along with who could potentially be in the stands to share his big moment.
"I would probably call either Mum or Dad, I don't know which one," Edwards told Cats Media.
"They don't answer their phone much, so then it would probably be my brother because he will answer it.
"I will definitely invite my family to the game, then one of my best mates from back home is a bit of a mad Geelong supporter. I will definitely flick him an invite."
