By  MATT JOHNSON

Young Richmond FC footballer Liam McBean played his first AFL match in May this year against Collingwood. This photo essay tracks that first big day, and a few behind-the-scenes moments in the big week that followed. Much emphasis is placed on the training track week in, week out, however AFL footballers are increasingly being called upon to reciprocate the love their community shows them through moments of fan engagement. McBean, 20, was dropped back to the VFL for his next match, and was then recalled to the seniors for a second game. 

Liam McBean – surrounded by family, friends and teammates  – awaits the presentation of his jumper from former Richmond player Emmett Dunne before Richmond’s Round 7 match against Collingwood.
The 20-year-old McBean lines up his first kick in AFL football in attempting to join the esteemed "first kick, first goal" club; his shot sails out of bounds on the full.

McBean motions teammates to pass the ball forward during Richmond FC’s Round 7 match against Collingwood.

After a close encounter against arch-rival Collingwood, McBean joins in the celebrations with teammates in the changerooms at the MCG.

Playing the role of coach for a couple of hours at Glen Waverley Secondary College, McBean directs students before taking part in a marking drill.

McBean engages in some intense sprint training following his seven-disposal, two-mark effort in his game against Collingwood.

GPS tracking technology is rolled out at Punt Road Oval to log each footballer's work rates – a key consideration when it comes to deciding whether McBean will return to the squad next week.

McBean chats with fellow teammates (from left) Reece McKenzie, Todd Elton, Kamdyn McIntosh and Matt Arnot in Cheeky Monkey Cafe following an intense training session at Punt Road Oval.

 
McBean forms part of the production line that is autograph signing during the Richmond Football Club Members' Cocktail Party at the Crown Palladium.

Taking a moment to reflect, McBean looks on during the Richmond FC Members' Cocktail Party held at the Crown Palladium.