Talented Tiger teenage forward Judson Clarke made a significant impression in his AFL debut against Port Adelaide at the MCG last night. Clarke scored goals with his first two kicks in league football and was lively throughout the match. Post-game, he was interviewed by Richmond Media and Channel Seven. Here is what he had to say about his debut and his journey to the AFL competition . . .

Getting the win on debut

“Definitely was a slog, tough fight, but super-stoked to get away with the four points in the end . . . just over the moon.”

Lining up for the set shot to kick his first goal

“I was just trying to stay confident within myself. Don’t want to over-think it too much. It’s just another game. That’s all I was trying to put through my head. So, I didn’t want to over-complicate things . . . Just happy with the way it landed. It was pretty special, all the boys getting around me. I don’t think there’s any other feeling quite like it. Pretty surreal. It’s a moment you dream about as a kid and for it to finally come true is just amazing.”

Having a big group of family and friends there

“It was really awesome that all of them could make it down. I’m just so glad that they all got to share the joy of tonight as well.”

Parents’ advice to him pre-game

“Just go out there, have fun . . . that’s what the approach was going into tonight. I know the structures and everything, and the game will just take care of itself.”

Playing on the hallowed MCG turf

“I think it’s the best running around on the ‘G’. I don’t think any other oval would quite compare to it. Just the history behind it and the feeling when you’re out there, thousands in the crowd . . . it’s pretty awesome.”

Support from his teammates

“It was unreal. Everyone was so encouraging, even if I made a mistake, like when I kicked that one out on the full. Jack Riewoldt was just talking to me, saying it’s alright, which helped me move on from it really quickly and then get back into what I needed to do next.”

Sharing milestones with Dylan Grimes

“It’s such an honour. I think it’s such an unreal moment to be able to share it with someone else. Completely two different ends of the spectrum . . . first game and 200 games. But it’s still so special, both milestone games. I couldn’t be happier.”

The transition from VFL to AFL football

“It’s definitely another level up. The game moves a lot faster. I think I was a little bit slow into it at the start, but as the game rolled on I kind of got used to it and got to that speed level.”

Passion for the game

“I’ve just loved the game since such a young age. I’ve always had a footy in my hands, so this night couldn’t have been any better. A dream come true.”

Training and playing alongside modern-day Tiger greats

“It’s really special, the advice and the knowledge that they give every day . . . I’m here as a first-year (player) trying to take it all in. I’m super-thankful to be able to spend every day with them.”

Following Kane Lambert’s lead

“I just try to follow behind him . . . Trying to get my professionalism and work-rate up there with his.”