Emerging Hawk Hayley McLaughlin will make her AFLW debut this Saturday afternoon after being named in Hawthorn’s team to face Collingwood at Victoria Park.

The 18-year-old joined Hawthorn via the AFLW Expansion Pre-Signing Period following a dominant junior career with the Eastern Ranges and Vic Metro. 

McLaughlin was initially recruited as a talented winger and has added further strings to her bow following success in the forward line while playing for Box Hill in the VFLW earlier this year, averaging 13 disposals and just under four marks across her five games.

The teenager now gets the opportunity to realise her dream of playing for the club she supports. 

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey congratulated McLaughlin on her debut.

“We’re so proud of the work Hayley has undertaken since arriving at the club last year,” Bailey said.

“She is a tough and versatile footballer with great endurance who I’m sure Hawks fans will love watching.

“We’re looking forward to seeing her run out against the Pies on Saturday and are confident she will form a key part of our future at the Hawks.” 

Hawthorn will name its full Week 2 team at 6.20pm tonight.