Sam Darcy can’t believe he will be making his debut this weekend.

The third-generation Bulldog, who is the son of Luke and grandson of David, said he was still pinching himself after coach Luke Beveridge broke the news after Thursday morning’s training session.

“I’m just unbelievably excited at the moment. I can’t believe it to be honest,” Darcy said.

“When the announcement was made, the energy from everyone was just unbelievable. It’s something I’ll never forget.”

The 19-year-old arrived at the Kennel with the second pick in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft, with the Bulldogs matching GWS’ bid for the father-son prospect.

Coming into the program carrying a foot injury, Darcy made his state-league debut for Footscray in round eight against Collingwood.

Stringing together some impressive and consistent performances across all lines in the VFL, he will now get his opportunity at senior level – wearing the same ‘Robodog’ guernsey his Dad wore. 

“Being able to wear the ‘Robodog’ guernsey – it’s even cooler getting to debut in Retro Round. I’m super excited,” he said.

“Coming in injured and now just building some consistent games of VFL – all the boys have just been awesome.

“I’ve been getting along with all the first and second year boys. All the leaders and pretty much everyone have just been awesome in terms of supporting me through the early stages.”

Darcy expects to start in the backline against Fremantle, with the Bulldogs’ team to be confirmed at 6.20pm tonight.

“I think I’ll start down back which will be nice,” he said.

“I’m super excited to work with a great group of boys down there and coach Rohan Smith.

“I’m a pretty confident person, so I hope to just go out there and back myself.

“I want to do everything I can to help the boys get up.”

Darcy becomes the Bulldogs’ fourth debutant of season 2022, following Luke Cleary, Robbie McComb and Dom Bedendo.