Nick Coffield will make his AFL debut when the Saints take on the Adelaide Crows at Etihad Stadium this Saturday.

Coffield, the No. 8 pick in last year’s draft, has had a strong start to his time at RSEA Park.

The 18-year-old received the news from senior coach Alan Richardson early this afternoon.

“He just told me that I’m going to make my debut this week, which is pretty special,” Coffield told saints.com.au

“It’s an amazing feeling to hear him say that. It’s a bit surreal. I’ve been dreaming about it since I was a little kid.”

Coffield was a shining light in St Kilda’s opening JLT Series game, collecting 20 disposals, five marks, five rebound 50s and four inside 50s.

“It hasn’t dawned on me that it’s a reality yet, so I’m sure that will come in the next few days,” he said.

“I’ve just got to try and embrace the next few days and hopefully get the win on Saturday.”

The instructions from his coach were simple – be physical, be aggressive and back yourself in.

“We’ve just got to play our own game and not go away from what makes us a good team,” Coffield said.

“Be hard at the contest, take the game on and not go into our shell.

“If we play at our best, I think we can beat anyone.”

Coffield captained the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup, also earning All-Australian honours after a standout national carnival with Vic Metro.

Secure a reserved seat for our Round 3 clash against the Crows on Saturday.