West Coast mid-season draftee Jacob Newton will make his AFL debut this Sunday when the Eagles face the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium in Round 23.

The 19-year-old becomes the Eagles’ ninth debutant of the 2025 season as the club continues to provide opportunities for its next generation of players.

Selected with pick No.9 in the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft, Newton has brought a burst of power and tenacity to the WAFL Eagles’ forward and midfield rotations, averaging 12 disposals, four tackles and a goal in six games.

Newton said he was taken completely by surprise when told the news in the team meeting.

“I was not expecting it at all,” Newton laughed.

“I came into the meeting thinking maybe there’d be a contract announcement or something like that. But no, fortunately enough, I got told I was debuting.

“I’m unbelievably excited and proud.”

Newton is following in the footsteps of housemate Tom McCarthy, who was taken with pick one in the mid-season player ballot and has been a major positive in the second half of the campaign.

Moving from South Australia midway through the year, Newton credited his teammates and the club’s support for helping him settle in so quickly.

“It’s been challenging at times, but the club has given me incredible support throughout,” Newton said.

“Living with teammate Tom McCarthy has been huge.

“He’s been a bit of a mentor for me, having been elevated to AFL as soon as he got here. I’ve been leaning on him a lot about what it’s like to play in the League.”

With his parents coincidentally in town, Newton gets to share the moment with them before boarding the plane to Melbourne on Friday.

“I’m still shaking at the moment. I’m pretty nervous but also over the moon,” he said.

“My parents are here and they’re so proud, so I’ll spend some time with them before we head over for the game.”