Hampden export to make AFL debut

TAKING THE LEAP: Willem Drew impressed for Port Adelaide in the JLT Series. He will play his first AFL game on Sunday. Picture: AAP

KOROIT export Willem Drew will make his AFL debut for Port Adelaide on Saturday.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

or signup to continue reading

All articles from our website & app

The digital version of Today's Paper

Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox

Interactive Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia

All articles from the other in your area

Power coach Ken Hinkley, himself a former Hampden league footballer, announced the Power's four first-gamers at a press conference on Tuesday.

Drew, who is entering his third season at Alberton, will join 2018 draftees Connor Rozee, Xavier Duursma and Zak Butters in the round one side to face Melbourne at the MCG.

Recruits Scott Lycett (West Coast) and Ryan Burton (Hawthorn) will play their first games in Power colours.

Drew, 20, suffered a season-ending foot injury in 2018.

The three-time Koroit premiership player told The Standard earlier this month he was working on his inside midfield craft as he strived to earn a spot in the Power's best 22.

EARLY IMPACT: Soon-to-be AFL debutant Willem Drew was named best on ground in Koroit's 2016 Hampden league grand final win.

Koroit coach Chris McLaren said the Saints were rapt for Drew.

"It's great news. I got a message this morning," he said.

"It's very exciting. He had a tough run last year with his footy injury and to be able to bounce back after a year off, have a good pre-season and be picked for round one is a testament to him."

A Koroit practice match will clash with Drew's first game.

But McLaren has plans for round two in South Australia if his former teammate holds his spot.

"I reckon there will be a fair (Koroit) contingent at Adelaide Oval the next week," he said.

"We have the weekend off and the Power plays on a Saturday at twilight.

"It might have to be our debut in round two."

HOME SWEET HOME: Willem Drew, pictured in Warrnambool ahead of the 2016 AFL national draft, played TAC Cup for Greater Western Victoria Rebels. Picture: Rob Gunstone

McLaren said the Saints would watch Drew's debut on replay after their scratch match against Torquay.

"And I am sure plenty of Koroit people will take his debut over a practice game too," he said.

McLaren believes Drew, who was drafted with pick 33 in 2016, had the attributes to adapt to the highest level.

"He was playing Hampden league senior footy at 15 and handled himself," he said.

"In the JLT Series his body shape looked bigger and stronger."

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.