By Molly Magennis
Sam Darcy has been drafted to play at the Western Bulldogs, continuing the Darcy family name at the club.
The 18-year-old was drafted on Wednesday, with the Bulldogs matching the Giants’ bid at pick two to secure Darcy as a father-son pick.
Darcy stands at a dominating 205 centimetres and will be the third Darcy to don the red, blue and white jumper.
Sam’s father Luke Darcy played 226 games for the Dogs and was their former captain from 2005-2006. Sam’s grandfather David Darcy played 133 games between 1963-1971.
Due to COVID-19, Darcy was limited to a handful of games in 2021, but despite this he was still able to showcase his talent, kicking six goals for Vic Metro in an under-19s trial game.
In a TV interview on Wednesday, Darcy said he was aware that the Giants’ were going to bid for him.
“I had a little indication before that was a possibility, still very nervous, but [I’m] glad to have it all over now,” he said.
Darcy said it’s a dream to play for the Dogs, and credits his dad as one of his biggest influences in his career.
“I’d say my dad’s probably been up there, but also all the caches over my journey had a huge impact on me, [I’m] very grateful for all the support I’ve been given over the years.”
Fortunately for the Dogs, Darcy thinks he’s still got a bit more growing to do.
“I’ve shot up another couple of centimetres this year which is nice,” he said.
On the Bulldogs’ website, the team’s national recruiting manager Dom Milesi said the club was thrilled to welcome Darcy.
“It’s fantastic to have another generation of Darcy join the club. It’s a special moment for the family, and for all Bulldogs members and fans,” he said.
“Despite the family lineage and our ability to draft him as a father-son selection, we picked Sam knowing his athletic traits and ability to be a versatile option will add greatly to our playing list.”
“He is an outstanding character who is competitive and driven to get the best out of himself and those around him, so we believe he’ll fit in seamlessly with our current group.
“However, while we know the upside Sam has as a footballer, we understand these young players haven’t been exposed to a lot of football over the last couple of seasons, so we’ll need to be patient and set the right expectations.”
Darcy will join five other current players whose fathers have also played for the club – Mitch Wallis, Tom Liberatore, Lachie Hunter, Zaine Cordy and Rhylee West.
Issy Grant was one of the first father-daughter selections in the AFLW competition.
