EVERY high and low of Jake Trew's football career prepared him for the biggest moment of his life - when he made his A-League debut with the Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday.
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From playing from the Australian Schoolboys to the Wollongong Wolves to overcoming an ACL injury, they all have been significant steps along the way for the 20-year-old Vincentia product.
"Saturday was a dream come true - it's something I've always wanted to do since starting to play the game of football," Trew said.
"The countless hours of training, rehabilitation, travel and commitment from not only myself but also my family, have gotten me to this point.
"I'm extremely grateful for everyone that has played a role up to this point."
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Before coming off the bench to replace Alexander Meier in the 83rd minute against Western United FC at GMHBA Stadium, Trew had suited up for the Wanderers on five occasions, including four A-League matches and one FFA Cup fixture.
"Since training with the A-League side, I have taken part in strenuous and consistent training, that has helped prepare me for this day [Saturday]," he said.
"So when my number was called on Saturday, I was extremely excited, yet nervous at the same time - it was an amazing experience."
Despite the Vincentia High School alumnus' impact, the Wanderers lost the game 2-1.
"I feel like I held my own out there," he said.
"Now that I've got a taste, I'm looking forward to playing more consistent minutes and proving that I belong out there on the pitch.
"I want to play as much as possible."
While Trew is still pinching himself, he has already shifted his personal goalposts to making his starting XI debut soon - which might not be too far away after positive reinforcement from manager Markus Babbel.
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"The coaches congratulated me on my debut and were impressed how I didn't let the occasion get the better of me," the striker said.
"While they were disappointed with the loss, they said there are plenty of positives to work on from my debut.
"I'm just going to continue to work hard at training and make the most of my chances and hopefully I can make my starting debut soon."
Adding to the enormity of the accomplishment for Trew is the fact he becomes just the second Shoalhaven product to play in the A-League, following in the footsteps of goalkeeper Matthew Nash - who played 16 matches across five seasons for Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets and Central Coast Mariners.
