Date published: Friday, March 31, 2006.
Author: NIGEL TAPP
Our Hawk set to debut
DEVONPORT teenager Grant Birchall will make his AFL debut on Sunday when Hawthorn hosts Fremantle at Aurora Stadium, in Launceston.
The 18-year-old taken at No.14 in last year's draft was named on an extended interchange bench but will take his place in the Hawks' line-up after impressing against Essendon and the West Coast Eagles in practice matches over the last fortnight.
Birchall was one of nine players drafted last year to be included in the first round.
Among the others are No.1 pick Marc Murphy (Carlton), No.2 Dale Thomas (Collingwood), No.7 Paddy Ryder (Essendon) and No.9 Mitchell Clark (Brisbane).
Hawthorn recruiting manager Gary Buckenara said Birchall had earnt his spot given his pre-season form and efforts on the training track.
"He has not been given a game, he has earnt it," Buckenara said.
"It really has been a terrific effort by him and we are delighted with his progress so far.
"Obviously it will be a big moment for the young man.
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"Normally it takes a while to get used to things and he has adapted to the changes well."
Buckenara said the fact that Birchall had played against bigger bodies over the last two season with Devonport in the NTFL would hold him in good stead.
"Out of the group we drafted he certainly was one who we expected could play some senior football this year."
"He has worked solidly (on the track) and done everything which could be asked of him."
Birchall's former mentor, Devonport coach Dale Perry, said he was rapt with Birchall's development in such a short time.
Perry who spoke with is former charge yesterday afternoon said he did not expect the occasion to impact on Birchall.