Luamon Lual is ready to make his eagerly awaited AFL debut in the King's Birthday Eve clash against Carlton on Sunday night at the ‘G.

Finding his way to Essendon via the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in 2023 after initially being linked to the Western Bulldogs as an NGA product, two solid years of development via the Bombers’ VFL program has helped pave Lual’s path to a big-time debut.

Lual’s parents Regina and Thomas were born in South Sudan and moved to Australia as refugees in the early 2000’s, settling in Warrnambool where Lual played his junior football. After a standout year with the Rebels in that 2023 season earned Lual a spot in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year, it was his impressive performances that also caught the attention of AFL scouts and soon saw him drafted to the Bombers at pick No.39 in the 2023 AFL National Draft.

Despite not debuting in his first AFL campaign last year, Lual demonstrated his readiness through consistent VFL performances, showing a willingness to contribute in different roles and continuing that into the 2025 season.

Lual’s competitiveness and excellent defensive pressure have been features of his game, alongside a clear determination, resilience and outstanding character.

The debut news brought overwhelming excitement and joy for Lual, along with his biggest supporters in his family, where he is one of four siblings.

Now, the 20-year-old is ready to showcase his talents under the lights at the ‘G.

“I was with Ben Hobbs when I got the call from ‘Scotty’ (Brad Scott). He told me about the movements in the team and then told me I was in. I felt every emotion possible, but mostly just excitement,” Lual said.

“When I called my dad, he was excited and somewhat in disbelief. He and my siblings are just super proud of me.

“I owe my family so much for the support they have given me throughout the years. To have them watch me run out for the Bombers in such a big game at the ‘G is very special to me.”

Lual’s first AFL outing will mark the eighth debutant for the Bombers this year, the Club’s equal most in a single season since 2010. Players before him include Isaac Kako, Tom Edwards, Saad El-Hawli, Archer Day-Wicks, Lewis Hayes, Angus Clarke and Zak Johnson.

Lual becomes Essendon player No.1207 when he runs out tonight.

The annual King’s Birthday Eve clash will also see Lual face off against his former South Warrnambool teammate Will White, in what promises to be an exciting encounter at the MCG between two of the game’s oldest rivals - first bounce coming at 7:20 pm AEST.

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