THERE’S a compelling argument that 2021 was just the start of something great for Harry McKay.

Almost going under the radar throughout the season, McKay consistently hit the scoreboard on the way to sealing a Coleman Medal win, despite effectively missing four games of football.

It was a fait accompli that McKay would ultimately lock down the full forward spot when the All-Australian team was announced on Thursday night.

In being named, McKay was the second-youngest member of the team - behind teammate Sam Walsh - and the youngest full forward since Jeremy Cameron in 2013 (20 years old).

“It’s quite exciting individually. I found out a couple of days ago and it’s a nice reward,” McKay said.

“To be on the stage with a few of the guys is a bit embarrassing, but it’s a nice reward for a consistent year.”

It was a big personal week for McKay, who ultimately wrapped up the Coleman Medal on Saturday night despite missing the final fortnight.

There were a few nervous moments when Tom Hawkins kicked his fourth at the beginning of the third quarter, but ‘Big H’ ended the season on top of the goalkicking tally.

Becoming just the third individual Blue to achieve the feat since the Coleman Medal’s inception, he admits the significance of the award hasn’t hit him just yet.

“Similar to the All-Australian jacket, you never play for the individual stuff but it’s nice when they come along,” he said.

“It’s probably more something I’ll look back on when I’m a bit older.

“A lot of people tell you how big of an achievement it is — it’s an amazing award. I think when I’m a bit older and my career s done, I’ll look back on it with some fond memories.”