Hawthorn will blood its third and fourth debutants for the year this Saturday, with Josh Weddle and Max Ramsden to take to an AFL field for first time against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium.

Weddle arrived at the club with Pick 18 in the most recent national draft, after the Hawks traded their way into the pick in order to secure the athletic utility.

The 18-year-old Oakleigh Chargers product made an immediate impact on his teammates and coaches at Bunjil Bagora, taking out the club’s time trial honours within weeks of his arrival.

Along with his elite aerobic endurance, Weddle also possesses high-end speed, highlighted by his 2.93-second sprint at last year’s national draft combine.

Towering at 203cm, Ramsden is a rare athlete for his size, also boasting elite running capacity.

Taken by the Hawks in the 2022 mid-season draft, Ramsden’s aerobic endurance was evident following his pre-draft 2km time trial, stopping the clock at 6.04min.

Putting a greater focus on his forward craft in the past off-season, the 20-year-old has added further strings to his bow, rapidly developing as a dangerous tall-target inside attacking 50.

Ramsden’s rise has contributed to Box Hill’s unbeaten start to the VFL season, where he’s spearheaded the offence, averaging 2.6 goals per game, including a bag of four a fortnight ago.

Head of Football Rob McCartney said both Weddle and Ramsden’s inclusions come on the back of a string of strong performances at VFL level.

“Josh’s athletic attributes are outstanding and well-renowned, but it has been his willingness to learn and grow his game that has got him to this point where we will see him run out against the Bulldogs this Saturday,” McCartney said.

“He is a great character around the club and his desire to get better is very evident with the way he works on his game and looks to tap into the knowledge of his senior teammates and coaches.

“As for Max, his trajectory of development has been one of great growth since joining the club last year and we are very excited to see him compete at AFL level.

“Having only celebrated his 20^th birthday just last week, Max has shown a great ability to contribute both in the ruck and up forward, which is really impressive for someone of his age profile.

“We’re really pleased Max has earned this opportunity – he shapes as an important part of our future after committing to the club with a new deal earlier this month.”

Hawthorn will announce the remainder of its Round 7 team on Thursday at 6.20pm on www.hawthornfc.com.au and across its Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.