Western Bulldogs defender Buku Khamis says running out in the red, white and blue for the first time was a moment he’ll remember for the rest of his life.

Khamis became the Dogs’ fourth AFL debutant of season 2021 when he took to the field against Carlton on Sunday afternoon at Marvel Stadium.

“It was good to get the first win out of the way, but in terms of the game too we were behind for most of it, so to come back in the last quarter was unreal,” the 21-year-old said post-match.

“It was an amazing feeling and something that I won’t forget - I just tried to soak it up as much as I could.

“(The crowd) was pretty loud – I wanted to make sure (my first touch) was a good first disposal. I did hear the cheer.”

Arriving in Australia as a six-year-old from South Sudan via a Kenyan refugee camp, Khamis’ story has been well-documented this week.

After three years on the Bulldogs’ list – and involvement with the club in the years prior to being drafted too – he finally got his opportunity.

Khamis said the support he received since being told of his debut on Thursday morning was incredible.

“It’s been a crazy week to be honest. When they announced I was playing my first game, there was just a lot of support from family, friends – my phone has been blowing up,” he said

“I’m relieved (my first game) is out of the way now, but it’s something I won’t forget for the rest of my life really.”

Bulldogs’ head coach Luke Beveridge said seeing Khamis run out was a special moment for everyone.

“It’s a great emotional, spiritual story for all Australians I think,” Beveridge told media post-match.

“That’s the significant thing about our football club - because he’s been in our Next Generation Academy, Dave Newton who has headed that up for our club has spent so much time with Buku.

“We all feel like we’ve had a small part in helping Buku get there – especially the playing group.

“It’s a great achievement for him, for our football club, and for all the people in Buku’s life who have helped him. We should all feel warm and fuzzy about Buku making his debut at AFL level.”