Devon Smith and Adam Treloar have plenty in common.

The Victorians made their debut in the opening rounds of the club’s inaugural year, with each receiving NAB AFL Rising Star Nominations and both will celebrate their 50th game milestone together at Spotless Stadium against Carlton on Sunday.

Their paths to the big stage, however, have been markedly different.

Smith is from the country town of Lara about 18km north east of Geelong and was plucked from the Geelong Falcons at pick 14 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft.

“I didn’t really know what to expect coming up to Sydney, but I knew it was a great opportunity, being so young and a new club, so there was obviously a chance to play early games if you were good enough,” he said.

He made his debut in the GIANTS’ first match and picked up a Rising Star nomination in their Round 19 win later that year. It was the same week that his grandmother passed away.

Smith nominates his performance in that game as one of his most unforgettable playing moments.

“It’s been a bit of a journey and it’s great to play with Adam Treloar in that 50th game. To have my parents come up here, my brothers, everyone to come and support me, it will mean a lot,” he said.

Treloar’s path to the GIANTS was less traditional than his fellow milestone man.

Treloar hails from the Dandenong Stingrays and arrived at the club as an underage recruit.

“I came here as a 17-year old, there were about 12 of us who got pre-listed. I had to learn how to cook, how to wash my own clothes, had to learn how to make my bed,” he laughed.

“We were the ones setting a culture and I was really excited for that opportunity and to be a part of that beginning.”

After earning a Rising Star nomination in Round 18, 2012, Treloar finished fifth in the Kevin Sheedy Medal the following year.

At just 21, Smith and Treloar are on track for impressive seasons as they continue to develop and build upon early form.

Both are confident that things are looking up for the club and that all begins this weekend at home against Carlton.

“We were probably unlucky to lose a few games early this year,” Smith said.

“We’re improving, I know we can feel we are improving and bigger and greater things are definitely ahead.”

The GIANTS host Carlton at Spotless Stadium this Sunday, June 22 at 1.10pm. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.au.