The 201-centimetre ruckman, who was delisted by Richmond at the end of the 2013 season, was at the crossroads before the Swans offered him a lifeline during last year’s Trade Period.
Speaking to sydneyswans.com.au after being named in the round two team, Derickx said he was rapt to be playing against the Magpies.
“I was talking to a few of the boys, and I don’t really show much emotion, but it was one of the proudest moments of my football career and life,” Derickx said.
“I debuted at Richmond, but I think this time means more to me because I was down and out after getting delisted.
“I’m so proud that I didn’t give up on my dream of playing consistent AFL football and I’ve worked my butt off to get where I am now.
“I’m fit and I had a big pre-season, and I feel like I’m making the most of this lifeline that the Swans have given me.”
After a strong pre-season, which saw him play in all three of the club’s pre-season matches, Derickx admitted to feeling disappointed about missing out on selection in the season opener against GWS.
But some wise words from fellow ruckman Mike Pyke, who has faced his own obstacles in an extraordinary AFL journey, helped put things in perspective for the 26-year-old.
“Pykey is a good competitor and he’s also a good teacher,” Derickx said.
“I remember in training last week when I didn’t make the team and I was pretty flat, Pykey came up to me and said ‘have a think about where you were when you first got to the club and have a look where you are now’.
“That meant a lot to me and he’s been so good to learn off.
“Watching him come from another sport and the way he’s driven himself to what he’s become now is inspirational.”
Derickx will team with Pyke when the Swans host Collingwood at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night.
He said he felt prepared for the challenge, but is more focused on helping the team notch its first win of the season, rather than his own performance.
“I’m expecting a good contest from (Brodie) Grundy and (Jarrod) Witts as well as Jesse White who might chop out for them at times,” he said.
“It’s a massive game, not just for me, but for the club to just play some good Swans-footy and hopefully have a good win.”
