KADE Stewart wasn’t expecting his opportunity to come so soon.
But it’s one he’s determined to make the most of.
The 19-year-old from Katanning in Western Australia will make his AFL debut against Melbourne on Saturday, becoming the 904th player to represent Hawthorn.
He will be the fourth debutant for Hawthorn in 2016 - following Kaiden Brand, Kieran Lovell and Marc Pittonet.
“It’s something that’s come very quickly, and obviously it’s a dream come true,” Stewart said.
“I’m really looking forward to be able to contribute in Gibbo’s 200th and just running out there with the boys."
It’s been a whirlwind journey for Stewart.
A member of the AFL Academy last year, the South Fremantle product missed out on being selected in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft.
A skilful left-footer, renowned for his fierce attack on the ball and the opposition, Stewart was recruited by the Hawks with pick 36 in the Rookie Draft.
He’s made a big impression in a short amount of time.
Weighing in at just 70 kilograms when he joined the club, the midfielder/half-forward knew he had a big pre-season ahead of him.
“Kade’s one of those young blokes who came in and did almost 100 per cent of the pre-season,” GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan said.
“From there, he’s just been able to produce consistent performances. He’s worked really hard, and he deserves to be selected.
“It was a popular decision among his teammates today when we announced he would play his first game this week.”
Fagan says Stewart has similarities to Will Langford – another Hawk who doesn’t shirk away from throwing himself into a contest.
Stewart has won his fair share of admirers already in the VFL this season, for those reasons and more.
Across his six games, Stewart has averaged almost 15 disposals and more than five tackles per game, showing his ability to have an impact on the game both with or without the ball.
He’s kicked seven goals from six matches, displaying a nous around goal to compliment his pressure work.
Perhaps there’s a similarity to another Katanning product who enjoyed kicking a goal or two in brown and gold, Mark Williams.
Either way, while Stewart wasn't expecting an opportunity just yet – he’s ready to step onto the big stage, the MCG.
It was a dream come true getting drafted, a dream come true getting named for his debut, and it all becomes reality at 1.45pm on Saturday.
