Exciting young forward Riley Hamilton will realise his AFL dream in his own backyard in front of friends and family after being named to make his AFL debut in his hometown of Canberra this weekend.
A GIANTS Academy product, Hamilton will make his AFL debut in a huge clash against the top of the table Dockers at Corroboree Group Oval, Manuka on Saturday afternoon.
A dynamic medium forward, Hamilton earns his AFL call up after consistent stellar form in the VFL which has seen him kick 26 goals in 12 games this year, including at least one goal in every game and multiple majors in 10 of the 12 appearances.
The exciting teenager, who doesn’t turn 20 until next month, is a fantastic tale of perseverance after originally being overlooked in his draft year after a devastating ACL injury suffered the year prior threatened to derail his AFL dream.
Hell bent on making it to the elite level, Hamilton played for the GIANTS Academy and the Allies as an overage player in 2025, as well as for the club’s VFL side, where a host of impressive performances saw him fulfil his AFL ambition after being picked up by the GIANTS as a Category B Rookie in the 2025 Rookie Draft.
Standing at 189cm, Hamilton’s ability as a hybrid forward to impact both in the air and at ground level has seen him become of the most dangerous forwards in the VFL this season, with his eye-catching form now rewarded with an AFL debut on Saturday.
The speedy teenager, who plays with infectious flair and energy, was informed of his upcoming debut by teammate Lachie Ash to the delight of teammates in a meeting at the club on Thursday afternoon.
“It’s a dream come true so I’m through the roof with excitement and I’m just proud of myself,” Hamilton said following the news.
“I’ve been in the VFL putting my head down and working hard and hopefully I can play a good game and make the team proud.
“I feel I’ve taken another step forward this year which is built off confidence and the coaches.
“I’m super grateful for all the boys around me who wanted me to get better, I just can't wait for this weekend.”
Growing up in Canberra until the age of 17 before moving to Sydney, Hamilton added he can’t wait to make his debut in front of friends and family in the nation’s capital.
“I love Canberra. I’ve played on Manuka a few times so it’ll be good to get back there.
“I’ve got lots of family there, mum and dad, my sisters still live there. Grandma and pop and all of that. So it’ll be super to get back and play a game there.”
Hamilton becomes the GIANTS’ fourth debutant this season following the debuts of Phoenix Gothard, Ollie Hannaford, and Harry Oliver.
Secure your seat here for the GIANTS’ huge clash with the Dockers in Canberra on Saturday.
