RYAN Burton will become the seventh Hawk to debut in 2016 after being selected to play his first AFL game on Saturday against North Melbourne.

Burton was drafted by the Hawks from North Adelaide with pick number 19 in last year’s NAB AFL Draft and his selection comes on the back of some impressive form in the VFL - including a nine-mark, three-goal performance against Werribee last week.

The 19-year-old said it was a huge thrill to be selected for his first game.

“I’m really excited, I’ve been happy with my footy over the last few weeks and am rapt to get my chance in the senior side,” Burton said.

“I just want to go out there and play my role and try to replicate some of the things I’ve been doing in the VFL which got me selected.”

Burton did not play any football in 2015 after suffering a badly broken leg in August 2014, but his testing at the 2015 NAB AFL Draft Combine convinced Hawthorn to use their first pick on the South Australian.

GM of Football Chris Fagan said it was a great reward for Burton, a medium-sized forward who possesses good marking ability and excellent skills.

"It's terrific to see Ryan Burton get his opportunity – with James Sicily missing this week it’s a good opportunity for another young player to get some experience at AFL level. We're excited to see what Ryan can do.”

Hawthorn takes on North Melbourne at the MCG Saturday afternoon.