Fremantle will unveil their first pick from last year’s draft against GWS at Optus Stadium on Sunday, with Heath Chapman confirmed to make his debut.

The 19-year-old was told the good news this morning by coach Justin Longmuir in front of his teammates before training at Cockburn.

“You get your opportunity because of your competitiveness,” Longmuir said.

“It’s one of your great strengths and I’ve seen it from day one.

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“You’re quiet, go about your business in your own way, but once you get out on the field, you compete harder than anyone.

“Your last two performances at Peel, (you) execute your role, compete your ass off and deserve your opportunity, so well done.”

It was seemingly the worst kept secret in WA football today, with Chapman seen shaking defensive coach Matthew Boyd’s hand on the track.

Taken at pick 14 last year, Chapman has been touted for an early season debut throughout the summer, but a mix of injuries to key position players Alex Pearce (knee) and Joel Hamling (ankle) as well as good form for Peel Thunder in practice matches in the past fortnight has led to the opportunity.

Chapman said it was a “childhood dream”.

“Everyone wants to go out there and play on the big stage,” he said.

“I’ve just got to think about it as another footy game and put my best foot forward.

Chapman will become the 229th player to represent the Dockers and the eighth AFL debutant the club has blooded since the start of 2020.

Fellow defender Luke Ryan backed the teenager to have an instant impact.

“I’m pretty sure he played a really good game last week, and he has put his hand up for selection with all the injuries,” Ryan said.

“He is a really good player and he is really classy, so if he comes in I know he will play well.”