Karl Worner has been called up for his AFL debut, named as a substitute for Sunday’s clash with Carlton at Optus Stadium.
The speedy half back has impressed this season for Peel, averaging 25 disposals and six marks per game from his 10 games, including 29 disposals and seven marks on Saturday against South Fremantle.
He joins Matthew Johnson as Fremantle’s two AFL debutants this season, as well as Club debutants Luke Jackson, Jaeger O’Meara, Josh Corbett and Corey Wagner.
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Worner arrived at Fremantle as a rookie draft selection in 2021, and he was rewarded last month with a two-year contract extension until the 2025 season.
The 21-year-old boasts the best time current trial time at the Club and was initially slated as a winger before making the switch to the backline this pre-season.
Worner was informed of the news in front of teammates at the Club on Friday morning.
“I’m really proud of the way you have gone about building your game,” Senior Coach Justin Longmuir said as he addressed the playing group.
“We shifted you to a half-back flank at Peel where your work rate has really shone out and you have worked on your positioning and defensive attributes.
“This time last year you were playing reserves, so you have really stuck at it.
“You have worked your backside off on all areas of your game and you deserve your opportunity.”
Worner said a mountain of hard work had led to this point.
“I’ve got a lot of emotions right now, I’m absolutely stoked and happy,” Worner said.
“A lot of work has gone in over my whole life to get to this point…it’s so great to get this opportunity.”
Hailing from Victoria and drafted out of the Oakleigh Chargers, Worner said he was taken aback by the passion of the Purple Army and was excited to soak in the atmosphere of Optus Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
“I think coming to the Club for me it was a just a massive surprise how loyal and dedicated the supporters are,” Worner said.
“Coming from Victoria, you get caught up in the Victorian teams and I tell you what, this is probably one of the loudest crowds I’ve ever heard - especially in that final last year.
“I think the Club is trending in the right direction. We have got a great supporter group and hopefully we can get the four points on Sunday.”
Fremantle’s final team for Sunday afternoon’s clash with Carlton will be released at 3pm via fremantlefc.com.au.
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