When the neutral fans cast their eyes over grand final teams, most players will be instantly recognisable.
There’s Buddy, Roughy, Cyril and Nat, Pav and Sandy – in fact most will go by one name only.
But there is always one or two who don’t jump off the page, but given the enormity of grand final day, that notoriety doesn’t last.
Fremantle’s Cameron Sutcliffe is one of these players and by 5PM on Saturday afternoon, those in purple will be hoping he is basking in the fame of premiership glory.
The 21-year-old from country South Australia, Kadina to be specific, was drafted with Pick 71 in the 2011 National Draft from the Woodville West Torrens Football Club.
His journey to the AFL is one of persistence; Sutcliffe missed selection for South Australia in the U/18 National Championships, was overlooked in the 2011 Rookie Draft and was only drafted at the death the following year.
After waiting his turn he has made the most of his opportunities since, breaking through for four games in 2012; not an easy feat given the value Ross Lyon places on strong bodies and experience.
It seems that Lyon is a fan, on the eve of his debut, Lyon spoke with excitement about Sutcliffe’s potential and he didn’t disappoint, with 15 disposals and five marks against the Western Bulldogs in Round 15.
Since then he has played a further 21 games with almost half of them coming as the substitute, in fact most of his career to date has been spent in green. This season alone, Sutcliffe has worn the substitute’s vest a record nine times.
Life in the subs’ vest can be a turbulent occupation and Sutcliffe has made the most of his opportunities, but it has not been without setbacks.
He was dropped for the Dockers’ Round 21 game against Melbourne, but it didn’t rattle his confidence, returning to the side the next week and playing every game since.
Notably Sutcliffe avoided the green vest completely and is averaging 18 disposals per game. He was solid on Saturday night against the Swans, with 17 possessions securing his position for Saturday’s grand final.
His strength is his running ability and versatility. He is blessed with a big engine and has played forward, back and in the midfield in 2013. Sutcliffe models his game on David Mundy and within the walls of the Fremantle Football Club he has been recognised as a footballer with great potential.
Sutcliffe’s aerobic capacity will be vital come grand final day, where the intensity will be high and the ability to spread from the contest vital. The coaching staff will also appreciate his versatility and a role in defense might be calling, given Hawthorn’s multitude of goal scoring options.
At BBQ’s across the country people will be asking who Cameron Sutcliffe is and while he is just another cog in the Fremantle mechanic – that’s the way they like it – he may just make a name for himself.
He may even join the single name club, Kenny anyone?
Getting to know Cameron Sutcliffe
As well as playing great footy, I’d like to be remembered for: Being a good bloke
Most memorable victory (AFL or non-AFL): Junior premierships
Most admired player at another club: Buddy Franklin
Favourite ground to play on: Patersons
Best part about training: Training with your mates
Weights or running: Running
What would you prefer – mark of the year or goal of the year: Goal
Which skill do you need to most work on: Tackling
Complete this line…with two minutes to go in the 2013
Grand Final: Freo will be up b 100 points
Who will be Mike Sheahan’s No. 1 ranked player by the end of 2013: Stephen Hill.
You are running 30 minutes late to an early morning beach recovery session. What’s your excuse: Slept in
What is the first thing you would do if you were Andrew Demetriou for a day: Pay first year players a bit more money
Favourite meal the night before a game: Pasta
What music helps you get ‘in the zone’ before a game: I don’t listen to any
One thing you would change about the world: Violence and poverty
PlayStation or Xbox? And what’s your favourite game: Xbox 360 and hitman
Who would win My Kitchen Rules at your club? And what’s their signature dish: Alex Forster cooks a good salmon
Your favourite line from a movie: I don’t have one
What’s your favourite dance move: The windmill
What is your favourite holiday destination in Australia: Esperance
Where would you recommend visiting within your state: Scarborough Beach