But the Wodonga boy has spent more time in hospital wards than any child should. 

Last Friday, Archer, who has alpha one antitrypsin deficiency and needs a liver transplant, traded a hospital gown for a footy jersey to run alongside his boys from the Western Bulldogs. 

For mum, Nikki, it was an emotional experience. 

“I was crying but it was such a good emotion,” she said.

“He was so tiny on the oval and the club was just absolutely phenomenal with him.”

In a whirlwind few days Archer met his hero Marcus Bontempelli, ran on field with the ‘big boys’ straight through the banner and was included in a huddle.

After the match he was literally swept off his feet and carried into the locker room by Bontempelli in time to sing the victory song. 

Archer was even allowed to address and sit in on the Western Bulldogs’ post-match meeting, before having the premiership cup brought to his hotel room.

“The club obviously couldn’t do enough for him, he was so well treated,” Ms Irwin said.

Archer’s inclusion was a part of the AFL’s Donate Life round.

“Hopefully a high majority of those who hear the message act on it,” Ms Irwin said.

“There are two things I ask people to do – the most important is to have the conversation with your family and friends so they understand whether you want to donate.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re registered, anyone can overturn that decision, so talk about it.

“And secondly sign up to be a donor.”

For Archer, who turns six on Friday, someone’s decision to become a donor could be life-saving.

Mrs Irwin said he was diagnosed when he was a baby but his health had deteriorated in the past 18 months.

“He’s a really amazing little boy, he’s got such a beautiful, caring nature and sometimes he’s just too intelligent for his own good,” Ms Irwin said.

“He has a sister who is eight and non verbal and he’s extremely protective of her.

“He’s tough, he’s gone through some really horrible times and each time he finds a new way to get through it.”

Ms Irwin said the family would never be able to thank Donate Life, the AFL or the Western Bulldogs enough for allowing them to create amazing memories.