First-year Hawk Grace Baba will become the club’s second AFLW debutant in as many weeks, after the 18-year-old was named in Hawthorn’s Round 2 team to face Carlton this Saturday night.

Baba was taken at Pick 28 with Hawthorn’s second selection in the 2024 AFLW National Draft and suited up for both of the Hawks’ pre-season matches following a strong pre-season.

Prior to joining Hawthorn, Baba represented the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League over two seasons, notably starring as a bottom-age player in the 2023 Grand Final, before backing up her big-game performance in the 2024 decider.

Baba’s draft combine results saw her ranked first in the running vertical jump (67cm) and third in the 2km time trial (7:46min), highlighting her agility and endurance.

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

“The fact that Grace has had the confidence and comfort to be herself since day one, says a lot about her and is encouraging for our program” Bailey said.

“We’re pleased with the strides Grace has already taken since joining Hawthorn and are excited by the potential she has, we were stoked to pick up a player of her quality at Pick 28.

“She fully deserves this opportunity and we look forward to watching her run out for Hawthorn on Saturday night, in what is sure to be just the beginning of an exciting career.”

Hawthorn will unveil its full Round 2 team tonight at 6.20pm.