Last weekend Miller Bergman achieved a dream that many start the path to, but few see come to fruition. He made his AFL debut for the club he's supported for his entire life.

Growing up, Bergman surely dreamt of after-the-siren winners and best-on-ground performances to kick his career off. The shoulder injury that forced him from the field in the first term was certainly not in his plans.

Despite how his debut ended up Bergman has a strong career ahead of him in royal blue and white, and regardless of what the future holds he will forever be Shinboner number 1043.

There was perhaps no person more well-placed to present the first-gamer with his debut jumper before than game than Darren Crocker. The premiership player and fellow No.27 also spent time on North's list with Miller's father, Shannon.

Bergman says he won't forget those special moments pre-game.

"To have Darren Crocker presenting me the jumper, he played in a premiership and was an unbelievable player. It was such a special moment," Bergman told North Media.

"I couldn't think of anyone else I'd rather have do it.

"Running out onto the ground, it was something I've dreamed of doing since I was born and I used to watch them do it every week … running out of the race through the banner with the North Melbourne song playing … it was a dream come true."

When a player is in line for their debut they're often told early in the week to allow them to wrap their heads around achieving a childhood dream and to allow their families time to ensure they can make it to the game.

Bergman's preparation for his maiden appearance was, however, interesting to say the least.

Initially on the emergency list for the clash with the Blues, the late withdrawal of Aidan Corr due to illness opened up a spot in defence that needed to be filled.

Bergman says he was preparing to play at Ikon Park that afternoon before he received the good news.

"I was about to jump in the car and head to the VFL game to play and I got a call from 'Nobes' (senior coach David Noble) asking if I was ready to play this week," Bergman said.

"I told him I was about to jump in the car and go and he was like 'nah, for us'. I wasn't expecting it and I couldn't believe it. It was one of the best feelings I've ever felt.

"I just want to get back out there playing as soon as possible. It was a great feeling to be able to do that and I'd like to have that most weeks, if not every week, when I come back and play."