DEBUTANT Harris Andrews will become the third player recruited from the Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy to play a senior AFL game when he runs onto the field to take on Richmond at the Gabba tonight.

Andrews, who stands 200cm tall, follows 2014 debutants Jono Freeman and Jordon Bourke.

Since the beginning of 2011, the Hyundai Help for Kids Brisbane Lions Academy has played an important role in targeting, attracting and developing potential AFL players aged between 12 and 18 in the Club’s zoned areas around Queensland.

Academy Manager Luke Curran said it was pleasing to see the hard work of the Aspley youngster pay off with senior selection in just his first year on an AFL list.

Andrews was rewarded for a strong pre-season and offers versatility for the Lions, being able to play forward, back and pinch hit in the ruck.

It was this flexibility which resulted in a number of AFL clubs circling Andrews in the 2014 draft.

“Harris has worked hard over the past 18 months to improve all areas of his football on and off the field, and has quickly gone from club u18 to Academy to QLD state selection, and finally senior AFL," Curran said.

"It's very pleasing and a great reward for our staff and our program to be able to help young athletes like Harris reach their goals - which is all made possible by the ongoing support of Hyundai Motor Company Australia through their Hyundai Help for Kids Foundation for our Academy program.”

“It will be a great achievement for Harris personally playing tonight at The Gabba in front of his family and friends and will hopefully be the first of many more senior games to come,” Curran said.