The Gold Coast Suns will unveil Academy graduate Lloyd Johnston for his AFL debut on Saturday in the club's home encounter with Carlton.
Johnston joined the Suns as a pre-selected rookie acquisition in the most recent off-season as a member of the club's Darwin Academy.
The 18-year-old has played 16 games at VFL level in his first year listed with the Suns, averaging 13.3 disposals, 4.3 marks and 2.1 inside 50s per game as a running defender.
Johnston will become Gold Coast's fourth debutant of 2023, joining Bailey Humphrey, Bodhi Uwland and Ned Moyle in making his maiden appearance at senior level this season.
Speaking via a club announcement, Johnston said he was ready to relish the opportunity to face the Blues.
“I can't believe it, I've been working so hard for this,” Johnston said.
“I just want to go out there and do everything I can for my teammates, and represent my family and community with pride.
“It means the world to get this opportunity.”
A Borroloola junior, Johnston was a promising draft prospect in 2022 for the Allies, the NT Thunder and Northern Territory side the Wanderers, while he also made a pair of appearances for Gold Coast's VFL side prior to joining the club.
Johnston has quickly impressed Suns coaches in his first season at Carrara, with interim coach Steven King acknowledging the effort the teenager has shown in his short time with Gold Coast.
“We've been so impressed with Lloyd this year, he's come so far and has developed into a young professional within our football club,” King said.
“His ability to learn, grow and retain information has improved tremendously across the season and he's been able to improve in all facets of his game.
“Lloydy has 100 percent earned this opportunity, he's hungry to play and we can't wait to see him run out this weekend for the first time with the AFL team.”
The Suns will host Carlton at Heritage Bank Stadium at 2:10pm (AEST) on Saturday afternoon.
