Levi Ashcroft will become the third member of his family to officially pull on the Brisbane Lions jumper when he makes his AFL debut on Saturday against the Sydney Swans at the SCG.

The 18-year-old midfielder, drafted as a father-son selection with Pick 5 at last year’s draft, has been named as the substitute for the Grand Final re-match.

Ashcroft follows in the footsteps of his father and Lions triple premiership legend Marcus, and older brother Will who won the Norm Smith in the club’s 2024 premiership.

Coach Chris Fagan told the Lions playing group the exciting news following Thursday’s training session in Sydney.

Fagan started the meeting with some interesting trivia about some of the competition’s most elite players who started their careers as sub, including Co-Captain Lachie Neale.

The premiership coach then provided Ashcroft with the reasons why he deserved his spot in the Lions team and what he expected.

“It is a bloody fair effort to break into this side when you think of it,” Fagan said.

“Of the 23 that represented this club in the Grand Final last year, the only bloke missing in Joey (Joe Daniher) because he retired, but everybody is fit and available for selection.

“So on the back of having shoulder surgery, a bit of a later start to the pre-season then getting involved in some of the later practice games, you’ve been able to force your way into the side which is a remarkable effort when you think about it.

“We wish you all the best, continue the Ashcroft tradition in the Brisbane Lions family and play alongside your brother (Will) which is going to be really exciting.

“We know you are going to make a huge contribution to the team when you come onto the ground, so well done.”

The young midfielder spoke briefly following the announcement, as he expressed his gratitude and excitement ahead of his AFL debut.

“I would just like to thank Fages (Chris Fagan), Danny (Daly) and the club for all the support they have given me over this time,’ Ashcroft said.

“I obviously had the shoulder surgery, so it was a bit of a tough start to my AFL career and the pre-season.

“I’d also like to thank all of you guys (players and staff in the room) for the support you have given me since being here.

“I am really looking forward to the weekend so let’s go get them.”