Former Lavington and Murray Bushrangers midfielder Michael Gibbons will realise his dream in front of a packed house at the MCG on Thursday night.
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Gibbons has been selected in Carlton's team for the AFL season opener against Richmond in front of an estimated 90,000 fans.
It was a moment that almost never happened for the two-time JJ Liston Trophy winner, who was eventually rewarded by Carlton after being overlooked at the AFL Draft on six occasions.
Gibbons' father Brendan and his wife Joanne are extremely proud of Michael ahead of his big moment.
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"The journey certainly has had it's ups and downs," Brendan said.
"But Mick always had a goal and we're proud of how he never gave up when it would have been easy and most others would have probably given up."
Carlton threw the 23-year-old a lifeline, courtesy of the new AFL pre-season supplemental selection period.
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