As the Tassie Tigers step out for their first game of the Hockey One competition on Saturday in Hobart, it marks the start of a new era.
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But for Northern star Kurt Budgeon, it's much more than that.
Named as the sole men's representative from the Greater Northern League in the 20-player squad, the South Launceston live-wire said his debut selection means a lot.
BUDGEON'S JOURNEY
"Surprise and excitement [were the two emotions]. I thought I was there or there-abouts and when I finally made the 20 it was a surreal feeling and then making the 14 for the game, I'm pretty happy about it," Budgeon said.
Playing in three premierships at South Launceston as well as an under-21 Tasmanian gold, an 18s silver and a 16s bronze, Saturday's game against South Australia is the culmination of years of hard work and the 21-year-old is looking for a maiden win.
"Hopefully we can come away with a solid win.
"We have a little bit of insight into what South Australia have got because they played their first game on Sunday and we had the bye.
"We are ready for them so hopefully we can take it so them and get the points."
ELSEWHERE IN SPORT
Named best on ground for the GNL competition in 2017 and best Launceston-based player in 2018, the 21-year-old construction worker has set the league alight with his pace and movement.
With West Devonport's Samantha Lawrence named in the female squad, Budgeon believes the two selections will give the competition more exposure and see more Northern players achieve Tasmanian success.
"Being the only GNL player this year in the men's side is pretty big. It sort of opens it up for future years for players to show that they can do it.
"There's a few blokes at South I would love to have in the side but it's hard to go past our defender Brad Buchanan."
Lining up with one of Australia's greatest, Eddie Ockenden, who recently received his 350th international cap, as well as the likes of Tim Deavin, Jeremy Hayward and Josh Beltz, Budgeon said the group has been great.
"They've been really welcoming," he said.
"I head down either Tuesdays or Thursdays, there's usually two trainings but I'll head down for one through the week and a Saturday session as well."
Fast Facts
WHAT: Hockey One - round 2
WHO: Tasmania v South Australia
WHEN: Saturday, October 5. 5pm women, 6:30pm men
WHERE: Tasmanian Hockey Centre, Hobart
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