Ahead of the National Draft, the son of former player and current staff member Donald, was eagerly anticipating a moment 18-years in the making.
Up at 1.30am (Utah time), McDonald watched internet coverage of the night back on the Gold Coast to keep track of the selections as they happened.
Watch Luke McDonald's amazing draft reaction | YouTube
Finally his time arrived.
“It was really exciting to have my number read out at pick eight. I’m really excited to finally be a North Melbourne player,” he told NMFC.com.au.
“It’s a dream come true. I’ve gone for North for a very long time. It’s the only team I’ve ever wanted to play for.”
PRESS PLAY above to watch the Luke McDonald interview | YouTube
A rush of anticipation was followed by a sense of satisfaction. Now, it’s time to look ahead and he has big ambitions.
“Obviously I want to play some footy for North next year, that’s been the goal since I started training here.”
McDonald travelled to Utah in 2012 and has trained with the Kangaroos all year in 2013. He also played for Werribee in the VFL; an experience he feels gives him a distinct advantage over his fellow draftees.
“It’s just given me a lot of confidence in my own ability and in my body just training and playing with AFL players. Hopefully it’ll hold me in pretty good stead. The proof will be in the pudding next year, but I’m a lot more confident than I was this time last year.”
In his time with North’s VFL affiliate, the 18-year-old played alongside Ben Brown, the club’s final selection at the National Draft at number 47.
If his comparisons are anything to go by, supporters have reason to be excited.
“He’s a really exciting player. I played with him this year at Werribee. He’s a really good fellow and I got on really well with him.
“He’s a bit like Majak; he just does a lot of exciting things.”
Enjoying a well-deserved break after a day of training that can only be described as exhausting; McDonald is thriving during his second high-altitude experience.
“I’m loving it. It’s been a lot better than last year. I’m a lot more comfortable,” he added.
“Yesterday was one of the toughest days of my life. It was about a 12-hour day.
“It’s really hard to breathe. You joke around that you’ve lost your lungs out on the field because it’s like that. It’s really tough but it’s going to put us in really good stead for the year and the rest of the pre-season.”
