By the end of 2024, Nate Follington had built himself a near-perfect launchpad.

The 20-year-old was named the Group 4 Rookie of the Year after his debut first grade season for the Werris Creek Magpies, and earned near-unanimous praise from teammates and opponents alike.

But bigger things awaited the former Farrer student.

After the season came to a close, he was tossing up whether to pursue footy up north on the Gold Coast, or venture south to Newcastle.

Ultimately, he chose the latter.

"I always wanted to go somewhere and play the best footy that I could, and progress as far as I can," Follington said.

"I had an opportunity to the Gold Coast as well, but I thought that was a little bit far to start with."

Luckily, Follington did not set off alone.

His partner of over two years,

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