Northam's Ian "Bobby" Hill made a stunning start to his AFL career as he posted an outstanding debut game for the GWS Giants in their loss to Richmond over the weekend.
The electrifying small forward booted three goals and a behind in his first game at the top level, in what proved to be the perfect debut for the former Perth Demon.
He also wracked up 15 possessions along the way in an impressive performance despite the Giants' 13.16 (94) to 9.13 (67) loss to the Tigers at the MCG.
Hill's efforts earned him high praise from GWS head coach Leon Cameron.
"I thought young Bobby Hill played some good footy in his first game," the coach told reporters in his post-game press conference.
"I mean at the MCG against clearly a top-four team in Richmond.
"We've seen him come through the under 18s last year and then he got injured and it has taken a little bit of time because of his shoulder. It is good to get him in the team after eight or nine games in the NEAFL.
"First up today, we are really proud that he laid some really good tackles, but equally showed what he can do at ground level.
"Our boys love him and we feel it is the start of something really good. It was a good debut and look forward to seeing each week go and him playing some footy for us."
Hill was snapped up by the Giants with pick 24 in last year's national draft, following an impressive stint for Perth in the WAFL.
Now, he'll be looking to hold on to his spot in the Giants' best 22 as the season progresses.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
