As Jordan Russell watches the play unfold from the Footscray Bulldogs backline he will also witness the evolution of the next generation of players and the defender can’t wait to begin the journey.

Joining Footscray in a dual Development Coach and player role, Russell has been a valuable asset, with 125 senior AFL games under his belt from his time at Collingwood and Carlton.

“As I’ve come on board – I’m obviously a development coach as well – the plan is just to help out as much as possible and pass on my experiences and things that I have learnt in the past,” Russell said.

“I think the depth is great, there’s a lot of young kids that are coming through that have a lot of skills and a lot of talent.

“I get to sit back in the backline and watch them all play, which is exciting.”

Immediately impressed with the Club, the 27-year-old was drawn to the united focus to improve as a team and the genuine care shown for each other.

“I think just the culture of the place [has impressed me] obviously being at two other AFL clubs and coming in here,” he said.

“Everyone is on an equal playing field and everyone wants to play for the team and help each other out.”

Saturday marks the first Footscray game at Victoria University Whitten Oval since 1996 and while Russell has not been at the kennel long, he is well aware of the significance.

“You only have to look at the history of the Footscray club and how long they have been around for and the supporter base and how loyal they all are,” he said.

“The fact that we are coming back to play footy at Whitten Oval again is a great experience.

“I am lucky and honoured to be a part of that.”