Fremantle will hand an AFL debut to rookie Cooper Simpson on Saturday night when the Dockers host the Western Bulldogs at Optus Stadium.
The teenager has impressed coaches and teammates since joining the club from the Dandenong Stingrays as the 35th overall pick in last year's National Draft.
Simpson endured an injury-interrupted draft campaign but did manage to show glimpses across the year, with the midfield-forward going on to claim best and fairest honours with the Stingrays.
While illness has hindered his start to the current season, Simpson had his best outing of the season at the WAFL level last week - kicking 2.4 from 19 disposals to go with five tackles.
With the Dockers anticipated to make a strong of chances for their Round 7 clash with the Dogs, Simpson has earned a spot in Justin Longmuir's side for a debut.
โWhen I heard the news, I was over the moon. I couldn't stop smiling,โ Simpson said, via the club's announcement.
โI can't wait to get out there in front of the home crowd for my first time and just enjoy it.
โI'm super excited to get out there on the big stage against the Doggies in a special game.โ
Simpson will wear the famous No.29 jumper for the Dockers, following in the footsteps of legend Matthew Pavlich.
Fremantle will be without key forward Jye Amiss (concussion) for this weekend's game, with Michael Frederickย (hamstring), Sam Switkowski (concussion) and Heath Chapman all in the mix to return to the senior side.
Teams for Saturday's match will be confirmed at 6:20pm (AEST) on Thursday.
The Dockers host the Western Bulldogs at Optus Stadium at 7:40pm (AEST).
