BENDIGO youngster Jaden McGrath will be one of four debutants for the Lions when they run out against Collingwood on Saturday night. Senior coach Justin Leppitsch heaped praise on the first-year player for his rapid adjustment to the training requirements of AFL football and the team’s style of play. McGrath played in all three of the Lions’ NAB Challenge games.

“He’s a terrific kid, who goes hard at the ball and plays with really good speed”, he said.

“He’s picked up our game plan really well and he deserves his spot”.

Leppitsch said McGrath’s family were making the trip up by car in time for Saturday’s game.

“I spoke to them while they were driving up; Jaden’s mum was in tears. It’s an exciting time for the family.”

Dayne Beams, Allen Christensen and Mitch Robinson will join McGrath for their first official hit-out in Lions colours.

“We’ll have four boys debuting, it marks a change for our footy Club and I’m sure all four will play well”, Leppitsch said.

See the full team this afternoon on lions.com.au