Young Magpie takes flight: Ryan Hill makes senior debut

But it was a debut to remember for Hill as the Magpies held on for a classic six-point triumph over the home side in the opening round of Goulburn Valley League.

The 17-year-old was in the thick of the action with eight disposals in the 12. 5 (77) to 10.11 (71) win on Saturday.

“Yeah, I’ll take that any day of the week,” Hill said with a smile.

“It was a good game. They were tough, they made you earn it every chance they got, but we did a good job and played well.”

Making your senior debut for your home club is always filled with emotions.

Hill said it was initial excitement followed by nerves once Euroa coach Scott Rowan gave him the good news.

“(When Scotty told me) it was mostly excitement to start and then a little bit of nerves later on in the week,” he said.

“I knew I could ask any of the boys if I needed anything, they’re all legends in there and I knew they’d help me out.

“Being around Will (Hayes) and Ryan (Pendlebury) is awesome. They’re masters of the game; they give good advice and tell you what to do which helps.”

Hill, much like his older brother Lachie, has quick leg speed, class skills and courage the size of a house.

Rowan deployed the youngster in multiple positions.

“I couldn’t knock it at all his performance, he played a number of roles for us,” the Magpies coach said.

“He was quick to put his hand up to play off half-back and to see he’s taken that upon himself and wants to apply himself is really pleasing to see from a 17-year-old.

“We’re very blessed with our young kids coming through.”

Hill said he enjoyed the chance to showcase his talents across half-back and learn from the Magpies’ experienced defensive group.

“It was a bit different from the first half where I was just applying pressure,” he said.

“But I spoke to Jayden (Gleeson), Ryan and Matty (Ivill) and they just helped me out and told me where to run and what to do which helped.”