While playing the waiting game, uncapped Essendon father-son selection Jayden Davey has his sights set on an AFL debut.
The 20-year-old has worked his way back from an ACL tear sustained early into his draft campaign of 2022, with the Bombers selecting Jayden and twin brother Alwyn Jnr. later that year to have the pair follow in the footsteps of their father, Alwyn Snr.
Davey spent his entire rookie season recovering from the knee injury, with his eventual VFL debut coming in the club's season opener this year against Brisbane's reserves.
The Palmerston and Oakleigh Chargers product has begun to show glimpses at the state league level, with his speed and forward craft in the attacking half combining for a breakout performance against Williamstown in Round 7.
Davey booted three goals from 15 possessions, with the young Bomber tellingย Zero Hangerย that the performance was a new step in his journey to breaking into coach Brad Scott's side.
Scott himself has told Davey twins not to "shy away from the moments" as Jayden reaches each new chapter in his raw career.
"I'm building piece by piece. I'm setting to improve each week," Davey said.
"That's what Brad has said to myself and Alwyn: 'You're a big confidence player, don't shy away from the moments. We've picked you for a reason and we see the talent, don't be afraid to use it'.
"There's heaps of improvement to come. It's a big thing for me, building my confidence up week by week and trying to get into the side, which is going really well. Fingers crossed."
While a debut might not come just yet, Davey is hoping to continue to press his case for selection and join his brother in the top flight as he becomes more and more comfortable with his surroundings.
A "starstruck" Davey stood beside some of the game's best Indigenous players last week to launch Sor Doug Nicholls Round, with idols Kysaiah Pickett, Bobby Hill and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan helping the youngster feel at home.
Speaking on the occasion, Davey said he's continuing to mature and learn from those around him.
"It's a big connection piece for me, being next to the big Indigenous AFL names," Davey added.
"Standing next to Kozzi, he's been a big hero of mine growing up, I've idolised my game off him, as well as Jamarra, Karl (Amon), both of the Hills.
"A starstruck moment for me after growing up, and now they make me feel comfortable around them."
A Kokatha man, Davey is in line to represent the Bombers next in their VFL curtain-raiser for Saturday's Dreamtime clash at the MCG.
Essendon and Richmond's senior sides will go head-to-head for the 20th edition of the Dreamtime game, with the Bombers entering the clash heavy favourites as they bring a six-game undefeated run into Round 10.
Likely to line up in the blockbuster affair, Awlyn Jnr. is set to add to his 17 career games, still 83 away from matching his dad's tally in the red and black.
