After a tough pre-season, North Melbourne debutant Billy Hartung is eager to play his first AFL game in the royal blue and white.
“I’m really excited,” Hartung told North Media.
“Coming to a new club, the first thing you want to do is fit in with your teammates, then get used to the way they play, so to be able to do that and to then play in Round 1 has me really excited.
“I can’t wait for Saturday night.”
Having impressed coaches, players, and fans throughout pre-season, the pacey midfielder says he was unsure if he would get the nod for the clash against the Suns.
“I didn’t know what was going to happen when I walked into the team meeting, and I think Ziebs (Jack Ziebell) said there was going to be a couple of players debuting this week.
“Luckily enough I was given the chance to play this week, and hopefully we can get a win.”
After his somewhat surprise delisting from Hawthorn at the end of 2017, Hartung is determined to prove himself with a fresh start.
“It was disappointing it ended at the Hawks, but I’m really grateful to North picking me up in the main draft,” Hartung said.
“There is a bit of a point to prove there, and I’ll get my chance this Saturday to prove what I can do.”
Having 63 games experience at AFL level for the Hawks, and being renowned for his elite running, Hartung has plenty of attributes to excite North fans.
Come Saturday and beyond, North’s new number 39 is hoping he can add these traits to the Roos’ line-up.
“I’ve played a few games with the Hawks (63 games), and I feel like I come here with some experience, and I’m hoping I can bring that to the team this year,” he said.
“I’m hoping I can bring that run and carry, as well as the ability to break lines.”
Playing in Cairns in late March was always going to be a challenge, and Hartung isn’t expecting the conditions to make his debut an easy one.
“It’s pretty humid up here, and it’s probably going to be pretty slippery as well, which is going to be a challenge on Saturday night.”
