James Murphy
IT was a dream come true for South Gambier footballer Nelson Forbes on Saturday.
The 17-year-old made his A Grade debut for the Demons in Round 7 of the Western Border season and what a first game it was.
Not only did he boot four goals to help his team to a strong win over East Gambier but he was named best-on-ground in an extraordinary display from the young talent.
Forbes entered the game with a team-first mindset but soon found himself in the centre of the action.
“I was just going out there to try help the team in every single way I could,” he said.
“I wasn’t expecting to have that much of an impact but the team believed in me and and that meant everything.”
If those achievements were not enough, Forbes’ first kick of the Sherrin was a goal.
“That gave me all the confidence in the world and everyone on the team got around me – even from the back line,” he said.
“That was my favourite moment and I will never forget it.”
Forbes had been itching for the call-up for a while after he caught the eye of South senior coach Brayden Kain playing in Under 18’s.
“This has been my dream since I started footy for South,” Forbes said.
“To finally be given given the chance to prove myself was what I was working and waiting for.”
To make things even more special, it was a late decision which brought Forbes into the side.
Kain received a message from Jack Casey early Saturday morning announcing his unavailability and as such Kain watched the Under 18’s clash with great interest.
After the game he approached Forbes and asked the question every young footballer wants to hear.
“Before he got the chance to finish the question I said yes,” Forbes said.
“It was one of the best moments of my life and I will never forget it.”
Mitchell Harrold and Ethan Sims also made their debut on the day, with the former listed among South’s best as well.
The trio were front and centre during the singing of the song after the game in a time-old tradition they are sure to remember for life.
“It was such a great experience to play with the players I’ve looked up to for so long,” Forbes said.
In a competitive roster, Forbes will hope to make further appearances in the senior side as the season progresses.
However, he was happy to help out the team in any way possible.
“I’m happy with whatever opportunity I can get – even if it’s just running water for the A Grade,” he said.
