It was a nervous wait for Davidson heading into the second night of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft on Thursday. But the anticipation paid off when he heard his name called at Pick 51—a moment he described as surreal.

“I was sort of praying that my name would get read out, especially by the Bulldogs,” Davidson said.

“It felt like the world stopped.”

At 22, Davidson joins the Bulldogs as a mature-aged recruit after a standout season with Richmond’s VFL team in 2024.

The versatile forward averaged 14 disposals, three marks, and three tackles per game while booting 26 goals across 17 matches in 2024.

His efforts earned him the prestigious Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal, awarded to the VFL’s most promising young player.

Davidson’s adaptability has been key to his success. With height, speed, and a strong athletic profile, he believes his versatility will be an asset at Mission Whitten Oval.

“I’m a bit of a utility player and got used in a number of positions at Richmond this year,” Davidson explained.

“Mostly as a high half-forward, but I also played on the wing and even in the ruck at times, using my jump.

“I’d say I’m a good runner with some speed and burst.”

For Davidson, this draft selection is more than just a career milestone—it’s a lifelong dream come true.

A passionate Bulldogs supporter since birth, the boy from Maffra expressed his excitement about joining the team he’s admired since childhood.

“I couldn’t have picked a better club to go to,” Davidson said.

“I’ve been supporting the Doggies my whole life, riding the highs and lows with them.

"My family, both immediate and extended, are over the moon—they get to support the club they love while supporting me at the same time.

“My favourite player growing up was Adam Cooney. I’ve always wanted to be like him, with the blonde hair and everything. Hopefully, I’ve gotten a bit closer to that tonight.”

Davidson’s journey to the AFL has been nothing short of extraordinary.

In his fifth year of studying medicine, Davidson balanced his rural placements across 2022 and 2023 with playing football across the Gippsland league, before finally capturing the attention of recruiters in 2024.

A “cold” message to Richmond, asking to join their pre-season training—a move that set the stage for his notable rise. 

Although his studies will take a backseat, Davidson is eager to focus on football and begin his first preseason as an AFL-listed player with the Western Bulldogs.

“I’ve worn the Bulldogs jumper plenty of times before, but to have it on knowing I’m going to play in it, in front of all the fans—it’s pretty special,” Davidson said.