St Kilda will blood its fourth AFL debutant this season, with Hugo Garcia selected for the Saints’ Round 5 clash with Greater Western Sydney at Manuka Oval on Saturday.
A midfielder/forward who can impact offensively and defensively, Garcia was taken with pick No. 50 in the 2023 NAB AFL Draft after the Saints traded up to nab the Calder Cannons prospect.
The 18-year-old made a strong start at RSEA Park, impressing in St Kilda’s pre-season games against Essendon and North Melbourne with his pace and tenacity.
Development coach Lenny Hayes, who has worked closely with Garcia in his first pre-season, said the Saints’ new No. 34 had earned his opportunity on the big stage.
“Hugo has been so keen to get better and has latched on to a few of the senior midfielders,” Hayes said.
“He’s been really disciplined with learning the game-plan.
“He’s obviously got speed and endurance, but his inside craft and willingness to chase and tackle are impressive.”
Garcia joins Darcy Wilson, Lance Collard and Angus Hastie as St Kilda's AFL debutants so far this season.
The Saints will name their full team to face the Giants at 6:20pm AEST today via saints.com.au.
