Promising young defender Alex Pearce said he had an inkling he would be making his debut this Saturday after he was called to the match committee meeting.

“I got pulled out of weights a bit early and got pulled up stairs to match committee,” he said.

“Ross and all the coaches were there and he broke the news to me.

“It was very exciting and a little bit nerve racking.”

Pearce, who is from Tasmania, was quickly on the phone to family back home to let them know.

“My old man was the first person I spoke to and he was pretty excited and lost for words, he didn’t really know what to say,” he said.

“I spoke to all the family, my mum, grandparents and uncles and they were very happy.”

The 19 year old will replace veteran Luke McPharlin, who was ruled out due to calf soreness, for Saturday night’s game at Domain Stadium.

TABtouch 22: McPharlin ruled out

Incredibly, Pearce would have been just four when McPharlin debuted in 2000.

“It’s very exciting to get the news,” he said.

“I started from a young age, played AFL Auskick, came to Freo and the goal has always been to play my first game.”

Pearce was recruited from Devonport, Tasmania at pick 37 in the 2013 National Draft.

The big-bodied 200cm defender has been among the best performers for Peel Thunder this season.

“I don’t know what it’s going to be like but I am just excited to get out there with all the boys,” he said.

“I can’t wait to get out there and I know all the boys will look after me.”

Talking points: Freo v Essendon