Adelaide forward Lachlan Gollant spent nearly two years on an AFL list before playing his first senior game.
The Victorian product made his debut in Round 23, 2021 and booted a goal as the Crows defeated North Melbourne.
But he missed the opening round of 2022, having to claw his way back into the side for Round Two.
Then came Showdown 51, where Gollant booted four goals to help sink Port Adelaide by four points on Friday night at Adelaide Oval.
“It was a good confidence builder for myself, but more pleasingly as a forward group we went in with a few key focuses and were able to get the win,” Gollant said.
“The Showdown was pretty nerve-racking… it was the biggest crowd I’ve played in front of.
“My third game, I’m just trying to cement myself a spot and do the best I can.”
It took Gollant years to build his body in preparation for the rigours of AFL football - but it’s certainly paid off.
“I needed a meal plan from the dietitian and was eating six meals a day,” he said.
“I had a lot of work I needed to do. I was underweight but working hard in the gym and trying to improve my diet.
“I think I’ve made some progress but I have a long way to go.”
When asked directly, Gollant told reporters he had gained 15kg in muscle.
Adelaide will face Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Sunday at 12.40pm ACDT.
Local fans can catch the Crows’ AFLW side play for a third flag in six years at Adelaide Oval on Saturday.
