Ever since he walked through the doors at Mineral Resources Park, effervescent small forward Noah Long has brought enthusiasm and energy to the West Coast Eagles - and that isn’t about to change.
Teammates and fans have instantly warmed to the 18-year-old, with the football nous and craft Long has displayed in two games showcasing why recruiters were thrilled when he slipped to pick 58 in last year’s draft.
But the Bendigo Pioneers product’s love for the game has arguably shone brightest, and Long couldn’t wipe the smile from his face after his first win for the club at Optus Stadium against Greater Western Sydney.
“It was just a crazy experience really,” Long told media on Tuesday afternoon.
“First game at home as well, so it was great to get a win in front of the home crowd. My first win for the club and the first win for the club in a while, too, so it felt special and I loved it.
“I appreciated that moment (singing the song) and the joy from the group. That moment after the game was nice in the Gatorade shower and sharing it with everyone after in the rooms as well.
“It was special.”
Long has built a connection with star half-forward Jamie Cripps, and it was clear to see during the Eagles’ second-quarter onslaught against the Giants, when Long set up his experienced teammate for two goals.
“Crippa has been a massive help for me this pre-season learning my role and the structures. We’ve had a good friendship already so it was good to get that link on the field as well,” Long said.
“As soon as I came in he was the automatic choice for me to be a sponge to really. I’m often asking him questions, often watching him how he goes about things.
“To learn off someone like that who has done it for so long holds me in pretty good stead.”
Part of Cripps’ advice to the teenager is just to enjoy the ride – which comes naturally for Long.
“It’s easy to get too caught up in the moment I guess, especially with a home crowd on the weekend,” Long said.
“But the message from everyone is go out and enjoy it, soak it in and have fun.
“Coming in at the start of (pre-season) I probably wasn’t expecting to debut this early and now to have it it’s still a bit of a pinch myself moment, especially when you walk out in front of a home crowd like that – it’s crazy.
“That’s just what I’ve been trying to do, relish every moment I got out there and soak it all in.”
Long was one of three teenage debutants in round one and Elijah Hewett became the fourth for West Coast as the starting sub in round two.
Experiencing their first steps into the big time together has made the experience that bit easier and even more enjoyable for the latest impressive crop of draftees.
“Me and Reuben (Ginbey) travelled to Melbourne last week as well, so it’s just good to have someone that you’ve done it with from the start to go with you as well because you’re just experiencing everything for the first time together,” Long said.
“Hewy this week as well, experiencing our first home game together, it’s good to have them people by your side.
“You can lean on them and also help them out.”
