WHERE there’s a will, there’s a Wade.

A multi-year journey will add another happy chapter on Good Friday, with Wade Derksen confirmed to make his AFL debut in Round 4.

Watch the moment Derksen found out the news via the player below, with the assist coming from his brother!

Arriving at the Blues as a supplemental selection period signing, Derksen was informed on Thursday morning that his long wait is over when it comes to his first game at the elite level.

Initially signed to GWS in 2022, Derksen fought hard in the VFL for over three seasons, impressing at state league level as initially a key forward and then as a key defender.

After being delisted at the end of 2025, Derksen took a chance on himself, playing for Nightcliff in the NTFL before making the tough decision to travel to Melbourne - away from his young family - for a training opportunity at IKON Park, despite no guarantees of an AFL list spot.

Making the four-day drive from Darwin to Melbourne, Derksen impressed all comers and was rewarded with a 2026 contract, with the tears quick to flow upon hearing the news.

Derksen is likely to line up down back in the Good Friday SuperClash, after a VFL performance on the weekend which saw him finish with 17 disposals and nine marks in a key defensive role.

Carlton will confirm its team at 6:20pm on Thursday night.