Talented Irish forward Aine McDonagh will make her AFLW debut on Saturday afternoon at Box Hill City Oval when Hawthorn faces the Western Bulldogs.

McDonagh arrived at the Hawks from Moycullen where she plied her trade in Gaelic football and basketball.

She then impressed in Hawthorn’s practice match against West Coast before injuring her ribs in the second half of that game, delaying her debut.

The 24-year-old now gets her chance to shine on Saturday, where she will line up alongside fellow Irish compatriot Aileen Gilroy.

Hawthorn AFLW Senior Coach Bec Goddard said McDonagh had come a long way since she first started training.

“Aine has made significant progress in her short AFLW journey,” Goddard said.

“Faced with an unfortunate setback in pre-season, she worked hard to earn her spot in the team.

“Her inclusion means we have now rewarded 16 players with an AFLW debut in our first season, which speaks to the work ethic of our playing group as well as its willingness to learn and develop.

“I can’t wait to see Aine run out against the Bulldogs on Saturday, especially with ‘Gilly’ by her side!”