Emerging Hawk Lavinia Cox will make her AFLW debut on Sunday afternoon, after being named in Hawthorn’s Round 1 team to face Brisbane at Brighton Homes Arena.

Cox was taken with Hawthorn’s first pick of the 2024 National Draft (Pick 15) and featured in both pre-season matches against Melbourne and Richmond.

During her draft year, the speedy midfielder played 11 games in the Coates Talent League for the Bendigo Pioneers, averaging 17 disposals and five tackles. The young talent also represented Vic Country during the Under 18s National Championships and is known for her elite athleticism and agility.

Cox also impresses as a dual-sport athlete, with a WNBL rookie contract with Bendigo Spirit as a development player.

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey congratulated Cox on her debut.

“Lavinia is such a great character and has been nothing but herself since arriving at the club. We love the energy, fun and vibrancy she brings,” Bailey said.

“We drafted her because of the attributes that she’s got, which we’ve seen glimpses of in the practice matches, and while there’s plenty of development to come, this is a great opportunity for her. 

“We look forward to seeing her run out against the Lions on Sunday in what we see as the start of a long career in the brown and gold.”

Hawthorn will unveil its Round 1 squad tonight at 6.20pm, with the final team announced on Friday at 5pm.