GWS recruit Jake Stringer couldn't be more excited to don the orange guernsey for the first time after an arduous pre-season that involved a hamstring injury.
Stringer's high-profile move from Essendon came with its critics, as fears over his professionalism and fitness became an area of skepticism.
But the 30-year-old has impressed coach Adam Kingsley since joining the club in October, and will get an opportunity to prove his worth on Saturday against Hawthorn at UTAS Stadium.
Stringer's debut was delayed by a persistent hamstring issue, which appears to be in the rearview mirror.
"Relief. It feels like a long time coming," Stringer said.
"Coming off an injury, I know I've done the work, but for the coaches to put the faith in me, I'm super excited.
"It's been a long three-four weeks running around pretty much by myself, so I'm looking forward to it."
Much has been made about Stringer's connection with Coleman medallist Jesse Hogan, who also returns to the senior side following his freak thumb injury in the pre-season.
The pair have both featured for three clubs and experienced hardships along the way, but Hogan's AFL revival could show the former Bomber the way forward.
"Two for one deal, when I did my hammy, he broke his thumb," Stringer said.
"But I think in all fairness it will take a bit of time (to connect on the field). From early in the pre-season, we seem to mix and match well.
"We're looking forward to getting out there and play good footy together."
Leaving the fishbowl of Melbourne to the NRL-dominated state of New South Wales, Stringer has been pleased with a greater level of anonymity, saying he can go to the shops without being recognised.
However, the hard-and-fast rule that Kingsley abides by has been a breath of fresh air for the 30-year-old, who says he's slotted seamlessly into his new club.
"It's amazing to come into a team that finished deep in the finals," Stringer said.
"I was lucky enough to live with Toby Greene for the first three weeks and pretty much from there, it's been smooth sailing.
"The boys and support staff have been welcoming. I've loved my time here."
Ruckman Kieren Briggs will join Stringer and Hogan in the senior side for the highly anticipated contest at the expense of trio Callum Brown, Max Gruzewski and James Leake.
