Saad El-Hawli will live out his childhood dream at Marvel Stadium on Thursday night when he makes his AFL debut for Essendon against Port Adelaide.

Taken with pick No.13 in the 2024 Mid-Season Draft after successful stints at local and state level, the 23-year-old has now earned his spot in the big time after a string of terrific VFL performances last year and a strong pre-season.

El-Hawli was told the news of his debut on Wednesday morning, marking a major milestone almost exactly 10 months on from first finding out he’d become a Don.

The former Northern Bullants and Altona product’s dash off half-back, crafty decision making and his ability to push forward and hit the scoreboard have made him a promising asset for the Club since joining, highlighted best in his four-goal effort against Carlton in the VFL last season.

El-Hawli will be keen to make his mark on the big stage as Essendon look to get on the winners’ list in 2025 against the Power on Saturday, with the action beginning at 7:30pm AEDT.