Fremantle’s top pick in the NAB AFLW Draft will pull on the purple for the first time against Brisbane this weekend, with Madi Scanlon the second Freo debutant named for Sunday’s season opener.

Scanlon follows Megan Kauffman’s lead in being named to play her first AFLW game, a steep rise for the 21-year-old who only started playing football at the age of 18.

The debutant was told of the news alongside her parents by Senior Coach Trent Cooper after Tuesday night’s AFLW season launch.

“I’m so excited, it’s pretty unbelievable after getting drafted and now in the space of two months - making my debut in round one,” Scanlon said.

“I’m not sure any of (my family) expected it and I think we were in a bit of disbelief, but I know they will be really proud.

“They are so supportive of me, and I wouldn’t be here without them - so I’m very grateful.”

“I’m not sure if I’m more nervous for the game or the plane at this stage, I’m still in a bit of shock!”

After two semi-interrupted months that included Covid and some small injuries, Scanlon has produced excellent form on the training track and featured in Freo’s pre-season practice match against Richmond earlier this month.

The Claremont product has settled in seamlessly at Freo after an impressive 2022 season in the midfield and as a running half-back with the Tigers in the WAFLW. Her season was highlighted by a premiership win with her Tigers teammates.

“There is such a mixed and diverse group, and everyone is just so unique and special in their own way,” Scanlon said.

“I have just really loved getting to know the girls and the staff and it’s an awesome culture here, so I can’t wait to go out there and play with them.

“I do hold a special place in my heart for all the ex-Claremont girls in Amy Franklin, Jess Low and Laura Pugh who all played at the same Club before coming here - I think we are all pretty close in that respect.”

Scanlon said it would be special to share the debut experience with Kauffman, with the pair re-uniting at Freo after spending time together at Claremont in previous seasons.

“Meg is an absolute ripper, she was actually one of my strength and conditioning coaches at Claremont a year ago, so we do go back a little bit,” Scanlon said.

“I was just so excited when I heard she was drafted as well, so to go through this pathway together has been awesome.

“She is so deserving, and she has had an incredible pre-season, so I hope she can get out there and kick a few snags.”