North Melbourne’s Trent Dumont says he’s ready to give “100 per cent” when he makes his first appearance in the royal blue and white in the NAB Challenge.
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The 19-year-old midfielder is part of the match day side set to take on Adelaide at Centenary Oval in Port Lincoln.
“I haven’t been able to wear the North Melbourne jumper at all over the past year, so it’s good the first opportunity I’ve got is coming up,” Dumont told NMFC.com.au.
After a lengthy pre-season, where tackling teammates is the only option, Dumont said there was plenty of excitement among the playing group for the NAB Challenge opener.
“It can get a bit tedious after a while, playing the same opposition each training session. It’s good to be taking on some real opposition and I’m sure it’s going to be competitive.
“It (pre-season) is quite long and strenuous on the body, so it’s definitely a relief and it’s exciting going in to this game with the season also coming up shortly.”
Dumont knows South Australia well, having played junior footy in Adelaide, before making the move to North Melbourne via the 2013 National Draft.
The midfielder said he expected a big crowd and a great reception from the locals in Port Lincoln.
“South Australians love their footy. This is a massive thing here. I know it will mean a lot to the people of Port Lincoln that we are coming out to play here.
“The match is sold out, so it’s obviously going to be a good atmosphere and they’ll get to watch a good game of footy and the game they love."
Asked what will be going through his mind when he runs on to the field in his first hit-out for the Roos, the young midfielder said he'll aim not to be overwhelmed by the occasion.
“I’ll keep it as basic as possible, not try and overcomplicate it,” Dumont said.
“(I’ll) just try and fall back on everything the coaches have told me to do, all our trademark behaviours, and just bring 100 per cent effort."
Sunday's match against Adelaide will now be streamed live on NMFC.com.au and the NMFC app. Tune in from 4.40pm Melbourne time for live coverage, as well as a live chat for discussion with like-minded NMFC fans.
Following the game, NMFC.com.au will provide highlights and media conferences.
Sticking to the basics
Trent Dumont says he’s ready to give “100 per cent” when he makes his first appearance.