Essendon have confirmed a 12th AFL debutant for the 2025 season, with Mid-Season Draft selection Oskar Smartt set to be named to play Richmond on Saturday night.
Smartt was promoted to the Bombers' senior squad after an impressive past 18 months with Essendon's VFL program as a lively small forward.
The 19-year-old, who is a product of the Bendigo Pioneers, has kicked 21 goals since arriving at Tullamarine.
He'll now look to open his goal tally in the top flight, with Smartt confirmed to play under Brad Scott when the Bombers face the Tigers at the MCG on Saturday night.
“I'm feeling that good about it. It's definitely an achievement I've always wanted to get and I just can't wait to get out there,” Smartt said in a club announcement.
“Obviously (nerve wracking) when the Coach asks you to come in for a chat, he said I'll be debuting and I just froze, I didn't know what to say.
“Essendon VFL has had a big impact on my career and the progress I've made, I could name all of the staff, coaches and boys who are just unreal.
“There were a few setbacks, missing drafts and having chats with Clubs and not getting picked up, the main thing for me was to play to my strengths and not worry about what other people wanted, getting good habits, becoming a better footballer and person.
“It's one of the best feelings calling your family and seeing their reactions, it means a lot – the adrenaline will hit, hopefully I can kick a few snags.”
Smartt joins a long list of Dons debutants this year, with all of Isaac Kako, Tom Edwards, Saad El-Hawli, Archer Day-Wicks, Lewis Hayes, Angus Clarke, Zak Johnson, Luamon Lual, Lachie Blakiston, Archer May and Vigo Visentini in making their maiden appearance in the red and black.
Smartt is the third of Essendon's four 2025 Mid-Season Draft additions to debut since joining the club in late May, with May and Blakiston among that group, with Liam McMahon still pressing his case for a call-up.
