IT'S every sports-mad kid’s dream.
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Running out onto the MCG on grand final day, looking up at the tens of thousands of fans in the stands, hearing the deafening roar as boot connects with Sherrin.
Lavington Panthers Auskicker Mitchell Adams will get the full grand final experience this Saturday, after the nine-year-old was selected as an Auskicker of the Year nominee earlier this year.
Mitchell was picked after taking the field at half-time during the Sydney Swans vs Collingwood game in Sydney earlier this year.
It was good going to Sydney the first time so it’ll be exciting playing on grand final day.
- Mitchell Adams, Auskicker of the Year nominee
Though he only just missed out on seeing his beloved Western Bulldogs win a flag live last year, the nine-year-old said he was looking forward to the experience.
“I’m really excited about it,” he said.
“It was good going to Sydney so it’ll be exciting playing on grand final day.”
The avid Bulldogs fan, whose favourite player is Lachie Hunter, said he was tipping the Crows to spoil Richmond’s party on Saturday afternoon.
All of the Auskicker of the Year nominees get tickets to the grand final for them and a parent, flights and accommodation in Melbourne, the chance to walk in the Grand Final Parade, as well as the chance to present a premiership medal to one of the winning players.
Mitchell said if he could choose which player to give a medal to, he’d pick Adelaide livewire forward Eddie Betts.
Mitchell’s father Richard said it was going to be a once in a lifetime experience.
“When he was picked we couldn’t believe it at the start,” Mr Adams said.
“But when it kicked in we were very excited – we’ve never been to the grand final before.
“I was proud of him, seeing him sitting in front of the TV cameras and being interviewed by Hamish McLachlan, he did very well.”
Lavington Auskick president Tim Sanson said Mitchell’s selection was a big moment for the club.
“You see these things on TV and wonder if it’ll ever happen to one of the kids from your centre,” he said.
“I think it’s great, hopefully it gets the name out there and it’ll be good for the area.”
The AFL grand final starts from 2:30pm on Saturday.