Jason Carter will make his debut after he was named as one of five inclusions for Saturday’s clash with Geelong at Optus Stadium.

A product of Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy, Carter will become the first player from Wyndham to play in the AFL when he runs out in the purple jumper. 

The 19-year-old is joined by Bailey Banfield, Mitch Crowden, Ethan Hughes and Sam Switkowski as Freo’s inclusions for the clash. 

Carter 'embraced the hard work' on road to debut

They replace the injured Rory Lobb (shoulder), Luke Ryan (hamstring) and Nathan Wilson (toe) as well as omissions Hayden Ballantyne and Brett Bewley.

Carter was told that he would debut by senior coach Ross Lyon in front of a buoyant playing group ahead of Fremantle’s main training session on Thursday at Optus Stadium.

Lyon praised Carter for his efforts from day one with the club.

“Mate, your worth-ethic and your application, we’re all about possibility mindset and growth,” Lyon said.

“You’ve been unbelievable in your application, you haven’t waivered and we know you’re going to go hard and compete. We’re absolutely thrilled you’re a part of the team.”

After being mobbed and congratulated by teammates, Carter briefly addressed the group.

“Congratulations to everyone who is playing,” Carter said.

“Thanks Ross for the opportunity and it’s an experience I won’t take for granted.”

Carter joined Fremantle’s NGA as a concession signing in 2016. He was then selected as a category B rookie following the 2018 season and became eligible for selection when he was upgraded to Fremantle’s senior list in July. 

He has impressed for Peel this season, averaging 16 disposals from 14 appearances in a mix of a wing and half-back roles.

Young midfielders Bailey Banfield and Mitch Crowden have starred at WAFL level with their pressure and ball-winning ability. 

Banfield laid an impressive 12 tackles in his most recent WAFL appearances against East Fremantle while also racking up 30 possessions, seven marks and two goals.

Crowden also performed well in the clash with 26 disposals, nine tackles and a goal.

Forward Sam Switkowski will also add to Freo’s pressuring ability, averaging 4.4 tackles per game from his 14 AFL appearances in 2019.

Hughes has played all but one game in 2019, omitted for last Sunday’s clash with the Bulldogs.

From his 18 AFL appearances this season, the defender has averaged 15.3 disposals and 4.6 marks.

Bewley, Travis Colyer, Cam McCarthy and Ryan Nyhuis have been named as Fremantle’s emergencies.

Bounce down for the clash is at 2.35pm WST and the game will be broadcast live on Fox Footy and Channel 7.

TEAM v CATS
INS: Bailey Banfield, Jason Carter, Mitch Crowden, Ethan Hughes, Sam Switkowski
OUTS: Hayden Ballantyne (omitted), Brett Bewley (omitted), Rory Lobb (shoulder), Luke Ryan (hamstring), Nathan Wilson (toe)
Backs: Taylin Duman, Joel Hamling, Connor Blakely
Half-backs: Ethan Hughes, Griffin Logue, Adam Cerra
Centre: Bradley Hill, Nat Fyfe, Ed Langdon
Half-forwards: Bailey Banfield, Michael Walters, Mitch Crowden
Forwards: Andrew Brayshaw, Sean Darcy, Brandon Matera
Ruck/followers: Aaron Sandilands, Reece Conca, David Mundy
Interchange: Jason Carter, Sam Switkowski, Darcy Tucker, Lachie Schultz
Emergencies: Brett Bewley, Travis Colyer, Cam McCarthy, Ryan Nyhuis