JOEL GARNER was not even six months old when Port Adelaide last won a SANFL Premiership but the Victorian-born teenager is very aware of the legacy that comes with wearing the revered black and white prison bar guernsey, and he can’t wait to add to it.
The 18 year-old, drafted by the Power with pick 60 in the 2017 AFL draft, is set to make his senior debut for the Magpies against Adelaide at Alberton on Saturday afternoon.
Recruited from Eastern Ranges and Vic Metro, Garner has had a taste of senior football in two SANFL trial matches but admits nothing compares to the thrill of round one.
“I’ve worked pretty hard over pre-season so to finally get to the games is pretty exciting and to get a taste of senior footy as well, which I haven’t had before, will be great,” he said.
“We’ve had two trial games already and I think the first one was a bit scratchy but last Friday against Adelaide it was really good and we found some really good chemistry so I think leading into round one we have had some really good games and we are ready to go.”
Garner came to Alberton being compared to former Hawthorn Captain-turned Brisbane Lion Luke Hodge because of his leadership qualities and ability to turn defence into attack off half back with his raking left foot.
Port Adelaide was thrilled that he slipped to pick 60 despite captaining Eastern Ranges, Vic Metro and Scotch College, and being named the first indigenous prefect in the prestigious school’s 166-year history.
But AFL Coach Ken Hinkley and SANFL Coach Matthew Lokan have not set any limits on his first season of senior football.
“They want me to keep building my game, keep building my endurance and try learn as much as I can in these first few weeks,” Garner said.
“As long as I play my role in the team and I am ticking those boxes with a good consistent level then I will be happy.”
“In the past I have been a leader and usually I’m pretty vocal on the ground so I will try to keep incorporating a bit of that, but I will listen to the senior boys while still helping direct when it’s suitable.”
Garner’s debut will be witnessed by about 17 family and friends who are coming across from Victoria to be at Alberton.
While he is excited to see them, he is more excited about donning the Port Adelaide guernsey for the first time in an official game.
“You feel the prestige of the club just walking down the Premiership walk,” he said.
“In our first trial game we didn’t wear the prison bars while in the second we did and you could feel the energy around it and the buzz it gave the boys.
“You felt pretty privileged to put it on and I think wearing it this week and representing the maggies is really exciting and we’ll try to live up to some of those legends who have worn it in the past.”
Port Adelaide opens its SANFL season against Adelaide from 2:40pm on Saturday March 31.
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