The Gold Coast Suns have confirmed Supplemental Selection Period signing James Tsitas will make his AFL debut against Collingwood on Saturday night.
Tsitas joined the Suns in the pre-season after a stellar campaign with SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens last year, earning plaudits as the competition's best player.
The 27-year-old shared the 2021 Magarey Medal with former Blue and Crow Bryce Gibbs, averaging 28.6 disposals, 5.6 tackles, 4.7 clearances and 3.6 inside 50s per game while leading the Eagles to a premiership.
After biding his time in the Suns' reserves throughout this season, Tsitas is now confirmed to make his first appearance in the top flight.
“You’ve been doing what you need to do mate, you’ve been consistent, hard and it’s a great story” Senior Coach Stuart Dew told Tsitas, via the club's website.
“It’s an opportunity and like you’ve always said you’ll be ready so it’s going to be a great moment and you should be really proud of yourself.”
Tsiatas stunningly becomes the Suns' first AFL debutant of 2022, and will add to Dew's midfield ensemble as a ball-winner and accurate user of the Sherrin.
The Suns will welcome back defender Connor Budarick from injury, while utility Jack Lukosius is also in line for a return.
Youngster Alex Davies will make way for the incoming names after suffering a knee injury last week against Port Adelaide
The Suns will host the Magpies at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night, with the match to commence at 7:25pm (AEST).
