SHANNON Neale has labelled his AFL debut as “a day I’ll never forget” following Geelong’s 42-point Round 11 win over Adelaide at GMHBA Stadium.
The 19-year-old West Australian pulled the Hoops on for the first time in front of his parents and grandparents, who dashed across the Nullarbor on a red-eye flight early Saturday morning.
His parents were on hand to present Neale with his no.33 jumper.
“To have my mum and my dad both have my jumper in their hands – and my mum started tearing up, which had me in a few tears as well – it was just such a sentimental moment for me and my family,” Neale told K rock Football.
“I’ve worked really hard, and my parents have done everything they can to help me get here.
“It’s not just a big moment for me, but it’s a big moment for my whole family as well.”
Neale’s impact on the final result was minimal, finishing with seven disposals, but Geelong fans were given a glimpse at his appetite to compete in marking contests.
He may have only taken the two marks, but he wasn’t afraid to fly for the Sherrin.
“It’s something I’ve been working on ever since I got to the club,” Neale said.
“Harry Taylor coming back this year has been a really big resource for me.
“I do a lot of work with him, and it’s something I’ve really built my game on this year – launching at the footy and taking it at the highest point.
“I was unfortunate not to grab a few today, but I guess that comes with confidence, and I can’t wait to get out there more with the boys and, hopefully, stick a few.”
Click below to listen to the full interview with Shannon Neale
Twitter: @tom_king79
