SUNS Academy and Palm Beach Currumbin Lions product Jed Walter will make his AFL debut in Sunday’s Round 2 clash against the Western Bulldogs in Ballarat.

The 18-year-old key forward has been named in Damien Hardwick’s side to face the Bulldogs after recovering fully from a pre-season collarbone injury.

Walter says he was ecstatic to receive the news from his senior coach.

“It really is a dream come true to earn my AFL debut for my hometown club and I couldn’t be more excited,” Walter said.

“A lot of hard work from many people has gone in to getting me here and I’m extremely grateful for all the support I’ve had. I can’t wait to run out on in Ballarat on Sunday.”

Walter was taken by the SUNS with Pick 3 in the 2023 AFL Draft, the highest selection for a SUNS Academy product.

He was an integral cog in the Allies inaugural U18 National Championships success in 2023, kicking 11 goals in four matches and earning All-Australian honours for a second consecutive season.

Standing at 195cm, Walter has impressed in his first AFL pre-season at the club, providing a physical presence up forward with an appetite for the contest, along with his second efforts and tackling pressure.

The SUNS will name a 26-man squad to face the Bulldogs later this evening before finalising a 23-player team on Friday afternoon.