The significance of running out onto the MCG with the number three emblazoned on her back is not lost on Western Bulldogs’ women’s captain Aasta O’Connor – and she intends to do the number proud.

Leading the first Bulldogs’ women’s team on Saturday, as a curtain raiser event linked with women’s round, O’Connor said while wearing Bulldogs’ colours her team are playing to win.

“For me to don the number three and the history that goes with that at this Club, it’s just something I never dreamed of and it’s happening,” O’Connor said.

“It’s fantastic and we are all very, very excited.

“[Coach Peta Searle] says you play to win, you train to win and that is what we will be out there to do on Saturday.”

The exhibition game plays an integral role in the growth and progression of women’s football and the 25-year-old ruckman is confident the Bulldogs and Melbourne sides can produce a high quality game of football to further their cause.

“I think the significance is that it’s real, it’s happening, women are here and we will be professional footballers one day, this will be a full time role as it is for the men,” she said.

“I guess for us now it really is about showcasing the game, we are Western Bulldogs players and proud to be.”

The Bulldogs first pick in the inaugural women’s draft, Stephanie Chiocci, said fans could be surprised with the skills and ability on show at the MCG on Saturday when the two teams go head to head.

While Chiocci is more commonly running and sidestepping through the midfield, she is set to play a role as a forward on the weekend – and is relishing the opportunity to kick a goal or two.

“If people come and watch us and see how we go about it, we are professional, we attack the footy and we have skills,” she said.

“I think they are going to be really surprised and it is definitely a step in the right direction

“Hopefully our team sticks to the structures and gel really well, I will be playing a forward role so hopefully I snag a goal on the ‘G – that would be good.”