Port Adelaide have upgraded mature-aged rookie Brett Eddy and youngster Dan Houston to their senior list in time for selection ahead of round one.
The pair are now eligible to face Sydney at the SCG on March 25, after both players had impressive JLT Series' for the Power.
Eddy kicked five goals against Hawthorn last weekend to round off a strong pre-season for the 27-year old, as coach Ken Hinkley has been impressed by his leadership since joining the club.
“It’s hard to not like Brett’s story. It’s one of persistence, and at every point I’ve spoken to him he’s wanted the opportunity and the chance to prove himself,” Hinkley told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“He’s done that all the way through the pre-season to the point that he’s an upgraded rookie and a chance to make his debut in Round 1.
“There’s footy smarts everywhere with him.
“The challenges in his game have been around whether he’s got the ability to make it at the highest level, but he’s just a smart player and it shows natural footballers can make it at the top level."
Houston was the other man upgraded for the Power, and after a strong showing in the SANFL last season, Hinkley believes the youngster can make the jump.
“Dan shows what can be achieved from a good pre-season,” Hinkley said.
“He wouldn’t have given himself much of a chance playing much JLT football this year, let alone AFL, but a change of position to half-back from half-forward late last year has seen him show really rapid growth.
“His poise and composure down there has stood out, as has his leadership, he’s a kid who leads in what he does.”
