Over the course of a lengthy AFL career with Carlton and an affiliation with Echuca stretching back to his junior days, finals success has been scarce.
But now, five years after he rejoined the club, the perfect opportunity presents itself for the 36-year-old to lift the Goulburn Valley League trophy when the Murray Bombers face Euroa in the big dance on Sunday.
“We’ve had a big build-up; the real stuff starts now,” Walker said.
“We’re super excited and as a club Simon (Maddox) and I couldn’t be more proud of the way the football club has bounced back during COVID and glued together.”
Walker’s grand final history with Echuca includes the 2019 defeat to Kyabram and further back the 2003 grand final defeat to Tatura — his last game before being drafted to Carlton.
“I played in the losing 2003 grand final with Simon so there’s a bit to play for, for both of us,” Walker said.
“My first game was in 2003 and I’m still playing for Echuca in 2022, so for me I’ve played 60-odd games for the club. I played all my juniors here, my kids play, my wife plays netball here.
“We are a club full of local boys so I guess to bring it home across the board would be something pretty special.
“It’s been a such a big build-up. For me and the club it’s been three years in the making.”
But following in the footsteps of Walker on grand final day is none other than his son.
Fourths player Cody will be hoping to follow his dad’s lead and achieve premiership success in the under-16s decider against Shepparton Swans.
And while the senior Walker has often harboured the dream of playing football alongside his son, this result isn’t too bad either.
“I’ve been super proud of Cody, he’s stepped up, as he was initially filling in with the under-16s,” Walker said.
“I always dreamed of playing with my son but right now I’ve got the next best thing, which is him running out in the 16s and me in the seniors.
“It’s been a pretty special moment for myself and Cody.”
On how the big game is poised to pan out, Walker said it was going to be a tough encounter.
“Euroa are a fierce competitor and I don’t think you can really go off in-season games,” he said.
“They’re a fiercely competitive, big-bodied side. Grand finals are naturally pretty rough but I’m sure they’ll be out to take a big scalp on the biggest day of the year.”
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