It has been a frustrating journey, and there have been moments when he thought the day would never come, but Stephen Clifton will make his long awaited AFL debut when he runs out for the GIANTS on Sunday afternoon at SKODA Stadium.
Clifton’s debut comes following an arduous journey, which has included years chasing a dream in the AFL wilderness, which included a stint at the North Ballarat Rebels that included three VFL premierships, and a JJ Liston Trophy as the VFL’s best and fairest.
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Clifton’s AFL dream was realized when he was taken as pick one in the 2010 Rookie Draft, and after a promising 2011 season in the NEAFL Competition, the frustration has only continued as Clifton has faced an injury interrupted season in 2012.
Clifton spoke exclusively to the GIANTS website, on what it feels like to finally be given the chance at an AFL debut.
“I’m absolutely stoked to get my AFL debut this Sunday and to play it at Skoda Stadium is just a fantastic opportunity for me and I’m just looking forward to making the most of it, said Clifton.
Clifton admits throughout the journey, doubts existed, and an unfortunate spell of injuries this season meant the wait was all the more agonizing.
“I won’t lie, there were a few times I wondered if my debut would ever come. It’s been a long journey to get here and I have had a few obstacles I’ve had to overcome, but know that it is finally here it’s a great feeling and I just really want to make the most of it.
“Round one in the NEAFL against the Swans, I broke my Scaphoid in my wrist, and missed about seven weeks with that, then came back and played one game against Gold Coast before straining the Posterior Cruciate Ligament in my knee. So it has been a long tough year so far, but I’m just looking forward to making the most of the rest of the season”, said Clifton.
The news of Clifton’s debut will see several family members travel to Sydney to witness the special event, and Clifton said it will be a special moment.
“The immediate family are coming up for the game, and they have been really supportive of me the whole time, so to have them here for the game is going to be really special.
