Brisbane Lions Academy talent Sam Marshall will play his first game at VFL level in 2024, with the teenager set to add to a promising opening to his draft campaign.
The midfielder has emerged as a potential first-round draft selection for November's intake following a promising bottom-aged season within the Lions' system and the Sandringham Dragons in the Talent League.
The Allies representative has also been one of the form players for the U18s squad to start the National Championships, averaging a team-high 27 disposals and 5 marks across his three appearances at the carnival this year.
Returning to the Dragons this year, the Queenslander has remained a pivotal piece in midfield for the reigning premiers as he continues to build a strong draft case.
Adding to his bow of experience this year, Marshall will suit up for Brisbane's reserves on Saturday when they host Coburg at their home base.
The game will be Marshall's second at the level, with the 18-year-old having represented the Lions' VFL unit last July, recording 19 disposals and 5 marks in a 128-point victory over the Northern Bullants.
Marshall is one of five inclusions for the Lions ahead of their Round 14 clash, with AFL-listed quartet Darcy Fort, Shadeau Brain, Carter Michael and Jarryd Lyons also coming into the side.
Brisbane selected Will Ashcroft for a trio of VFL matches during his draft season two years ago, with the eventual No.2 draft selection averaging 27.3 possessions per game to strengthen his prospects.
Ashcroft's younger brother Levi, a teammate of Marshall's at Sandringham and in the AFL Academy, could also be called on for action at the state league level come the conclusion of his carnival run with Vic Metro.
Marshall's Allies teammate Leonardo Lombard has already represented Gold Coast's VFL side on five occasions over the past year - including the club's successful grand final win over Werribee last September as a 16-year-old.
Both Marshall and Lombard will return to their U18s duties with the Allies next week to face Vic Country for the final game of their National Champions.
