Sam Lalor only started eating solid food one day before his debut as part of his recovery from a broken jaw.
However, it didn't affect his performance. The youngster was awarded the Rising Star nomination for his impressive effort against Carlton, in which he tallied 18 disposals, eight score involvements, and two goals.
"I was told to take the surgery and potentially be right for round one, or if I don't, I'd be available in rounds five to six. So it was a pretty clear decision for me," Lalor explained.
"It was pretty tough. I couldn't eat for three and a bit weeks post-surgery, until I found out the day before the game that I was allowed to start eating again. I thought I wasn't going to be able to fuel myself for the game, but I figured some things out."