The time is now. Time to put words into action. The date of February 4^th has been on everyone’s mind for a long time now and after a long pre-season slog, we are finally here.

The first weekend of AFLW competition is underway and I speak on behalf of everyone at the Bulldogs in saying that, whilst it hasn’t been easy, all the hard work and sacrifices will be worth it when we run out in front of a packed crowd at VU Whitten Oval tonight.

The build-up has been massive - something that none of us have ever experienced before. Whilst we absolutely appreciate the support and have been taking it all in, we are focused on doing our job and that is to play to the best of our ability to help the team get off to a winning start.

All week the preparations have been about focusing on tonight and ensuring we are ready for what Fremantle are going to throw at us. They are definitely going to throw a lot at us – and we can’t wait for that challenge.

All the drills, mini games, conditioning and meetings will be on show from the first bounce.

Those first minutes will be extremely intense and we have to be able to absorb that and then counterpunch with our style of play. We have complete faith in the structures and game plan we have in place and believe we can match it with the best when we get our style of play up and running.

Heading into tonight’s game there are a lot of unknowns. The journey we are all currently embarking on has never been done before. This brings unrivalled excitement but also a sense of responsibility.

We are running out there not just for ourselves or the club that we are representing, but for all the young girls out there, and women too, who love footy but have been told it's not for them and to stick to the sidelines.

Not anymore. The AFL is now truly for everyone.

The season launch on Monday night was an incredible event. Receiving our very first AFLW guernseys from our player sponsors was a special moment and one that all of us will remember forever.

The mood in the building was one of excitement and pride – we were all there because we love the game, the club and believe in what we are building down at VU Whitten Oval.

I have no doubt that tonight will have countless memorable moments, but there is one moment in particular that I'm looking forward to; that final rev up from Grovesy before we run out onto the ground.

No outsiders – just the inner sanctum and one final moment to share as a group before we run out in front of thousands of fans and create some history.

The adrenaline will be absolutely pumping and when we run out in front of the red, white and blue faithful a dream will be realised.

Let’s get it!