Two club debutants, an AFL debutant, and the inclusion of a superstar midfielder headline Adam Kingsley’s side for the GIANTS’ Opening Round clash with the Hawks on Saturday. 

As revealed earlier today, 2023 first-round draft pick Phoenix Gothard will make his long-awaited AFL debut on Saturday in the club’s season opener against Hawthorn at ENGIE Stadium. 

Two other GIANTS will also wear orange and charcoal for the first time on Saturday, with new recruits Clayton Oliver and Jayden Laverde both named for their official GIANTS debuts.  

Oliver joined the GIANTS from the Demons in the summer after 205 games and a premiership in red and blue, while Laverde joined the GIANTS after 145 games with the Bombers to add further experience and toughness to the GIANTS’ backline.  

Meanwhile gun midfielder Finn Callaghan will take on the Hawks after successfully overcoming a minor hip flexor issue.  

Star skipper Toby Greene will lead his side against the Hawks on Saturday, while newly appointed vice-captains Connor Idun and Jack Buckley will look to start their new leadership positions off well with strong showings against the visiting Hawks. 

After a long summer and a pair of pre-season games, the GIANTS will now look to kick off their 2026 campaign with a win as they seek revenge against the side that ended their season short in last year’s Elimination Final. 

AFL Opening Round   
 
GIANTS v Hawks  
Saturday, March 7 at 4:15pm  
ENGIE Stadium | Wangal