The next chapter in the famous Long dynasty at Essendon will be written this Sunday when Jake Long makes his AFL debut.
Jake is the son of the two-time premiership player and Norm Smith Medal winner, Michael Long.
Essendon Coach John Worsfold told Jake of his call up today sparking loud celebrations from his teammates.
“I’m pretty excited and relieved and happy for me and my family and the Club, just really excited,” Jake Long said.
“We’re a tight knit group at the Bombers.
“I think seeing a young fella come up, I’m pretty close to all of the boys…it’s like a little brother playing their first game.
“It feels amazing. I’ve waited almost two seasons, so I’m ready to go out there and play.”
Long was elevated from the Rookie list today after playing 14 games in the VFL.
“First half of the season I was going in pretty strong then I had a rest and sort of stepped back a bit,” he said.
“I’ve been stringing some good games together and hopefully this week I make it my best game so far.”
Long’s immediate family, including his father, is based in Darwin.
“Whoever comes down, I’ll be happy that they’re watching me – all the people up in Darwin, people around South Australia, central Northern Territory – my family are all around,” Long said.
“I hope they’ll be watching on the TV or down at Etihad.”
