21-year-old Ariel Steinberg will make his debut against West Coast Eagles at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Steinberg was drafted with selection 31 in the 2010 National Draft before being re-drafted as a rookie in 2013.
The key position player from Mildura has had a strong season in defence for the club’s VFL team.
“Ariel has shown a great deal of persistence over the last few years and deserves the opportunity he receives on the weekend,” VFL Coach Hayden Skipworth said.
“He has clearly been our most consistent AFL listed player throughout the VFL season alongside Nick O’Brien.”
“Everyone at the club hopes he goes well and looks forward to seeing him run out there against the Eagles.”
Coach Mark Thompson said he was looking forward to seeing Steinberg in action on Saturday.
“It is great for Ariel to play his first game, it has been a long haul for him after being here a few years and he deserves his chance.”
Steinberg becomes the sixth debutant for the club in 2014 alongside Zach Merrett, Dylan Van Unen, Marty Gleeson, Jason Ashby and Orazio Fantasia.
