Dan Hannebery played his first game for St Kilda on Saturday, and the former Swan had a long time to look forward to his debut in red, white and black. Hannebery last played in the Swans' Elimination Final loss last year.
“It was a big build up, and it was really exciting to be back out there. I certainly had a lot of nerves going into the game, and obviously really excited going into it,” Hannebery told Sam McClure on SEN’s Time On.
“The result, particularly that third quarter was really disappointing, and certainly put a dampener on the day.
“In regards to getting up to be able to play and feeling like I’d made a contribution - I certainly put a lot of work in - that was the pleasing aspect.
“Overall, there was probably an overriding feeling of disappointment knowing that we let a really good opportunity slip.”
Saying Hannebery had some nerves would be an understatement.
“I was a lot more nervous than I have been in as long as I can remember, probably ten years. And that’s including Grand Finals.”
“Probably just because of the build up. New club, wanting to impress and gain respect from your teammates and the coaches.
“Certainly I had a really interrupted pre-season. There were a few factors in that regard. From an individual point of view I was pleased to get through my first game and feel like I could build on that. I would have liked to get the win, obviously.”
The former Swan is already looking to the next challenge, and the Saints’ next chance for redemption.
“Tomorrow’s our main session. I’m hopeful most guys are feeling pretty fresh, so we can get stuck in and make amends (against) Richmond on Sunday.”
St Kilda take on the Tigers at Marvel Stadium on Sunday at 1:10PM AEST.
Listen to the full interview with Dan Hannebery below: