Vigo Visentini will make his AFL debut when the Dons take on Fremantle at Optus Stadium this Thursday.
As announced by Senior Coach Brad Scott in his Monday morning media conference, the 204cm ruck will become the Club’s 11th debutant in a season that has seen the first appearances for several of its young talent.
Visentini found out the news from skipper Zach Merrett in front of overjoyed teammates and staff on Monday.
The Xavier College product has developed nicely via the VFL over his first 18 months as an AFL-listed player since joining the Dons with pick No.8 in the 2023 Rookie Draft.
Beginning his tenure predominantly as a forward, the 19-year-old has taken on the No.1 ruck mantle with aplomb at VFL level this season, averaging 35 hitouts and 19 disposals per game over his last seven matches.
With ruck mentor Todd Goldstein’s elevation to the senior side earlier this season, the fast tracking of Visentini’s development has paid dividends and he’s excited to ply his trade at the highest level.
“I’m over the moon and absolutely stoked. It’s something you dream of and look to achieve as a little kid, and for it to come to fruition is pretty amazing,” Visentini said.
“You’re always tipped to stay ready. You never know ‘til you know in this space, so for Zach to get up and announce it officially was awesome – something I’ll remember forever.
“We’ve got a young and exciting group, and to see some of your best mates get the opportunity is almost just as good as yourself. It’s super exciting for it to come for me this time.
“To represent this Club and don the sash for the first time is something to be really proud of for the rest of my life.”
Combative at ruck contests and mobile around the ground, Visentini provides more energy to a side brimming with young talent as the Dons look to bounce back against the Dockers on the road.
The round 15 clash kicks off from 8:10pm AEST (6:10pm AWST) on Thursday.
