Hawthorn have confirmed rookie Jai Serong will make his AFL debut this weekend against Gold Coast.
Serong, the younger brother of Fremantle star Caleb, joined the Hawks through last year's National Draft as the 53rd overall selection.
The Gippsland product becomes Hawthorn's sixth debutant of 2022, following Josh Ward, Connor MacDonald, Sam Butler, Jackson Callow and James Blanck.
Hawthorn football boss Rob McCartney expressed his delight in Serong's promotion to Sam Mitchell's side for Round 21.
"Jai has shown great hard work and dedication since arriving at the club late last year," McCartney said.
“He has an eagerness to learn and a strongly competitive nature, which have been on display throughout his first season at the club.
“We’ve been really pleased with Jai’s development so far this year, and we’re excited for him to play his role on Saturday.
"This also rounds out an impressive milestone for the club, with all four of our 2021 national draftees having earned senior selection in their first year at the top level."
Serong has averaged 11.9 disposals and 3.7 marks per game and has booted nine goals for Box Hill this season.
The Hawks will make the trip to Launceston to face the Suns on Saturday, with the match to commence at 1:45pm (AEDT).
