MELBOURNE teenager Jack Grimes will make his debut for the Demons in this week’s clash against Richmond.
Grimes, a former captain of the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup, was taken by Melbourne with pick 14 at last year’s national draft – the pick the Demons obtained from the Brisbane Lions for Travis Johnstone.
The decision to trade Johnstone did not sit well with many Melbourne supporters, but Grimes, who will wear Johnstone’s old No.16 this week, says he feels no pressure as his direct replacement.
“Not really. No one really spoke about that too much. I haven’t worn his number yet but it might be different on the weekend. Everyone said I was lucky to wear his number but no one spoke about the pressure of it,” he said.
Grimes said it was a thrill to represent the club he has supported his entire life.
“There were tears from my mum. She was excited, I told Dad as well and he was pumped. My little brothers were so excited because they are all keen Melbourne supporters. They watch it every week,” he said.
“I’m pretty nervous. I lost a bit of sleep the last few days. I’m trying to relax now and not think about it too much. It’s pretty exciting playing for the club I barracked for my whole life.”
But as one career begins, two others wind to a close as Grimes’ debut coincides with the farewell to club legends Adem Yze and Jeff White.
The debutant says he will cherish the chance to play with two of his childhood heroes.
“I was thinking about it the other day - I grew up with their posters on my wall. It is weird playing with people I’ve grown up idolising but it is a big day for them too so it’s good to be a part of it.”
Grimes spent the first part of the season on the long-term injury list with a back ailment but impressed many with his work at Sandringham since returning.
Melbourne coach Dean Bailey praised Grimes for his diligence in overcoming injury.
“He’s a young man who has worked incredibly hard to overcome some early setbacks to get to where he has. He’s very driven and very determined,” Bailey said.
“I’ve told him this will be the first of at least 100 games he’s got to play for Melbourne. I’m really looking forward to seeing him play and he’s going to bring some excitement to the Melbourne footy club.”