Archie May, a 20-year-old Australian rules footballer, is scheduled to make his AFL debut for Essendon this Saturday at the MCG. This moment ought to be the high-water mark of his career. No wonder May stands tall (literally!) at an impressive 198cm. He bolsters the club’s ruck stocks after ruck duo Sam Draper and Nick Bryan both underwent season-ending injuries. Joining the team, Evans was picked No.6 in the mid-season draft.
Only fifteen days earlier, May was playing local football with Subiaco. His performance was the crowning achievement to a stunning ascent up the Australian rules football hierarchy. His route to the senior team speaks to not just his ability but his grit and effort to prove himself. That day when he received his life-changing news from Brad, he first lost the call altogether while busy tidying up the house.
May remembered that he didn’t know what to make of Brad’s phone call. He was hardly able to believe his ears when the next day, Brad proclaimed that he was in!
The second he called his family to tell them about his pick, it was an emotional scene. His father went into shock when he heard the news, and his mother’s response was joyous crying. On top of that, his partner Sophie Matéos jumped up and down with joy, yelling in excitement when she heard that he won.
I’m beyond excited and thrilled to have this opportunity. Understandably, May was disappointed after investing so much grassroots effort to achieve her recent success. You could hear their pride in her accomplishments when she rang Mum and Dad to share the news.
Nonetheless, personally for May, her debut would be a major accomplishment. It represents an important shot in the arm for Essendon as they seek to overcome a horror season engulfed by injuries to their top-liners. His presence on the field aims to contribute significantly to the team’s performance and uplift the spirits of Bombers supporters.
On Saturday, I would like to be all in, and all there, and thinking primarily about how I can best help the team. I plan on doing Bomber fans proud.
As May prepares for his inaugural game at one of Australia’s most iconic venues, he embodies the perseverance and spirit of athletes who aspire to reach professional levels despite humble beginnings. His story is a motivation to countless young players looking to make it just like him.
