Livewire youngster Nick Watson will become the first Hawk to debut in season 2024.  

The 19-year-old has demanded senior selection for Hawthorn's Round 1 clash against Essendon at the MCG this Saturday after showing glimpses of his talent over the course of the pre-season.

Taken with Pick 5 at the 2023 national draft, Watson is set to bring a thrilling dynamic to the Hawks’ new-look forward line.  

General Manager of Football Rob McCartney said Watson had put his best foot forward over the summer to earn a Round 1 selection.

“Nick has had a really strong pre-season and through match-play and practice matches he has been able to transfer some of his special skills in training into games,” McCartney said.

“At just 19 years of age, we understand he is still a young and developing player, but he’s got some attributes that are going to be really exciting.

“I think our members and fans are going to get a lot of joy out of watching him in the brown and gold over a long period of time.”

Hawthorn’s full Round 1 team will be announced on hawthornfc.com.au at 6.20pm tonight.