Brisbane draftee and academy graduate Sam Marshall will debut against Collingwood on Easter Thursday at the Gabba.
Marshall was selected as a hybrid midfielder with Pick 25, but slipped in the order due to his links to the Queensland club.
The Sunshine Coast local joined the Lions alongside father-son gun Levi Ashcroft, and has been going about his business quietly in the VFL to date.
Marshall was pivotal for the Sandringham Dragons in their Coates Talent League premiership win last season, and claimed the best-on-ground medal in the decider.
Brisbane GM of Football, Danny Daly, was stoked to reveal the local product's "special moment", saying he's well equipped for AFL football.
"This is the moment that every kid dreams of, and it is a really special moment for him and family to share," Daly said.
"The reasons why he is making his debut are the same reasons why we drafted him - which are his work ethic, his running ability and talent.
"What makes Sam's debut even more special for us is that he is another homegrown Queensland local that came through the Youi Brisbane Lions Academy."
Lions coach Chris Fagan shared a sentiment similar to Daly, saying he's earned his debut.
"You've worked hard for this all summer, and we know what talent you've got," Fagan said.
"You are a very self-driven young man. You don't say much, but I think you're self-driven, which I see just by your actions."
Marshall's long links to Brisbane have seen him feature in their VFL squad since 2023 on five occasions, including two this year.
His first matches as an official Lion yielded impressive performances, gathering 24 and 23 disposals.
