Victorian midfielder Isabella Simmons will achieve a lifelong dream this weekend making her AFLW debut in Eagles’ colours against Port Adelaide.

Simmons had joined West Coast in a move from the Melbourne Demons prior to pre-season, leaving her home state to advance her career and fight for her first appearance in AFLW.

Upon hearing the news Simmons spoke to westcoasteagles.com.au, stating she couldn’t be happier to get her first game of AFLW with the Eagles.

“It feels like a long time coming, I’m super excited,” Simmons explained.

“Since the first day I’ve came over here to WA I’ve been loving it here at Eagles, I love the club and I’ve been loving every day coming in to see the players and staff.

“Being presented with the number nine jersey is extra special to, it’s got such a good history within the club.”

Being drafted in 2020, Simmons has travelled a long road toward her debut battling several injuries over three seasons before finally getting the call up this weekend.

“Getting a debut in AFLW is all I’ve ever wanted since I was little,” Simmons said.

“I’ve always had a footy in my hands from a young age and would always be kicking around with my brothers so being able to go out and now do it on the big stage is really special."

Following news of the announcement, Isabella’s mother Kim was there to surprise her and present her daughter’s playing guernsey during the side’s team meeting, after flying to Perth early from Melbourne.

“I had no idea that Mum had flown over early and stayed in Perth overnight," Simmons said.

“It was a complete shock to me, the plan was to come over for to see me at the game, but it was pretty awesome to see her I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.”

People say it all the time, but honestly it’s a dream come true.

- Isabella Simmons

Now selected in the team, Simmons will continue to focus on getting her body prepared for what will be a physical clash in round one, stating taking care of herself over the next few days is crucial.

“For me recovery is the key, I’ll be spending a bit more time in the ice bath now that I know I’m playing,” she explained.

“The focus will be when I go out there is just not to over complicate things, keep things simple and make sure I have a clear mindset in what I need to do."

West Coast Eagles will run out against Port Adelaide at Mineral Resource Park at 1:10pm AWST to kick-off the AFLW season this Saturday.