MEATH NATIVE CONOR Nash is set to make his AFL debut on Saturday as his Hawthorn FC side face Geelong.
The 20-year-old, who impressed as a minor with the Royals, joined the Hawks in late 2016 as a rookie but has spent most of his time in Melbourne playing with the Box Hill Hawks in the Victorian Football League.
Also a talented rugby player, Nash has played for Leinster and Ireland U18s clubs but ditched that along with plans to study medicine as he moved Down Under.
And now he’s set for his debut.
“I’m absolutely ecstatic,” he told the clubs official website ahead of their Melbourne Cricket Ground clash with Zach Tuohy and Mark O’Connor’s Cats this weekend.
“When I found out yesterday in front of the family in the car, it was just pure joy. I can’t wait, and I look forward to contributing to the team.”
Feeling lucky? 🍀😁
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) August 9, 2018
Hawthorn will unveil Irish debutant Conor Nash this Saturday against the Cats.
📝: https://t.co/xdqqVkKKPX#GameFaceOn pic.twitter.com/SOjgupDX2v
Nash added of his family who were visiting and preparing for their flight home before hearing the news:
“Clarko asked them if they could prolong their flights until Sunday or Monday. They’ll get to see me play which is a very special moment for them, and for myself as well.
“I’ll be creating chaos, [creating] pressure as well, and using my speed and athleticism.
“I’m sure I’ll be spent after the game.”
There’s further good news for the Irish Down Under as Kerry 21-year-old O’Connor has been elevated to the senior list at Geelong and takes his place as an interchange on Saturday.
This comes as his second AFL match this year, while Laois star Tuohy has been named to start in the half-backs.
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