Hawthorn will unveil another debutant this Sunday, with promising backman Damon Greaves preparing to play his first AFL game.
The youngster joined the club two years ago via Pick 13 in the 2018 Rookie Draft.
Since then, he’s shown impressive development while honing his defensive craft in both Box Hill’s 2019 season and this year’s scratch matches.
His imminent debut was foreshadowed earlier this year when Greaves put together a pair of strong performances in Hawthorn’s Marsh Series games.
Having waited patiently until Round 16 for another taste of senior football, the 20-year-old is planning to grab his opportunity with both hands.
“It hasn’t quite sunk in yet,” he said after hearing the news.
“It was a pretty special moment in front of the group getting announced, and I’m sure the excitement will start to build even more as we get closer and closer.”
When asked what Hawthorn fans can expect from him, Greaves said he hopes his defensive efforts can come to the fore.
“I play down back. My kicking skills and my running capabilities are my strengths, as well as my one on one defending.
“(Hopefully I can) provide the drive off half back.”
Greaves will become Hawthorn’s fourth debutant this year, following in the footsteps of Harry Jones, Will Day and Josh Morris.
The Hawks have flown to the Gold Coast ahead of tomorrow’s clash with the Saints, to be played at Metricon Stadium at 1.05pm.
