Richmond has revealed that young forward Seth Campbell will be debuting against Gold Coast in Saturday's Opening Round clash.
Campbell - who was taken with Pick 12 in the 2022 Rookie Draft - will don the yellow and black for the first time, after impressing new coach Adem Yze over the summer.
We're bringing a debutant to the Gold Coast ๐
๐ฐ - https://t.co/uqOEaAaJEl pic.twitter.com/gp2Q3WeWNa
— Richmond FC ๐ฏ (@Richmond_FC) March 7, 2024
Already been at Punt Road for a year, the now 19-year-old had to bide his time whilst facing ongoing groin and leg issues.
Playing only five games in the VFL in 2023, Campbell was able to overcome his injuries and lift his game throughout the pre-season.
Featuring up forward in the practice match against Collingwood, the Tasmanian was lively standing alongside recruit Jacob Koschitzke and Noah Balta.
Development coach Kane Lambert - who gave Campbell the good news - said it was a well-deserved opportunity.
"We all know how hard you've worked. From the moment you walked in the door, we knew there was something about you" Lambert said.
"Last year didn't transpire the way you would have liked... but you have a lot of confidence in your body and we're just so excited to see you go out and play footy."
Campbell's running ability has been a big part of his game, with teammates noticing his work rate to keep up with gun midfielder Tim Taranto, who's arguably one of the best endurance athletes in the competition.
The 19-year-old's goal sense and evasiveness are also key attributes he'll bring to the Tigers line-up.
However, not all news out of Punt Road was positive on Thursday, with the club ruling out champion Dustin Martin for the clash with Gold Coast.
Coach Yze expressed his importance to the young side, saying the "risk" wasn't worth it given the short turnaround.
"The risk of him playing this weekend is going to be too high," Yze said,
"We've got a five-day break leading into the Carlton game and he's too important for us."
Forward Tom Lynch is also in a similar boat as he'll push for Round 1 selection whilst captain Toby Nankervis is battling a foot issue.