THIRD-GENERATION Carlton forward Jack Silvagni's elevation into the senior team for his debut against Collingwood on Saturday night at the MCG was earned after producing excellent VFL form, says coach Brendon Bolton.
Silvagni has booted 13 goals in his past four games for the Northern Blues, including two bags of four.
The 18-year-old is the son of Blues list manager and AFL Team of the Century full-back Stephen, and the grandson of club legend Sergio.
"Obviously third-generation makes it that little bit more special," Bolton said at the club on Friday.
"It was an earned right, but one I would've thought his family and our footy club's proud of, and really excited about."
The coach said Silvagni will help the Blues boost their scoring. They are ranked second-last in points per game, ahead of only the struggling Essendon.
"He's been hitting the scoreboard, and it's an area we'd like to do more of at senior level," Bolton said.
"When I first met all of the draft intake this year, I said 'Nothing will be given, you're not entitled to anything'. He (Silvagni) earned his position."
Silvagni was drafted at No.53 last year as a father-son selection, after the Bombers had bid for him.
His work ethic in the weights room has helped build his frame to the state that he would be able to withstand the challenges at the top level.
"He's worked incredibly hard in the gym, so he's put on some kilos. Now he's starting to build his body," Bolton said.
Silvagni's debut comes on as big a stage that Carlton is likely to play in front of this year. With only one game being contested on Saturday night, all eyes will be on the match.
However, Bolton said that wasn't a consideration at the selection table when it came to deciding whether Silvagni should be picked.
"He's dealt with media all his life. It's nothing different, and he'll deal with it with absolute professionalism," Bolton said.
Andrew Walker will line up for his 200th game, becoming the first indigenous player at Carlton to reach that milestone.
Bolton paid tribute to the second player drafted in 2003.
"Over his career, he's faced adversity with his body, but he's never let that impact him in his mindset," Bolton said.
"He's shown our draft class how to prepare off the field with his body. He's an absolute professional."
Blues fans will hope Silvagni's first game is akin to Walker's debut. The 30-year-old picked up a Brownlow vote after he collected 26 disposals in a 49-point win against West Coast in round five, 2004.
With Silvagni's debut, Walker's 200th game and the clash against arch-rivals Collingwood, the night promises to be massive for the Blues.
Bolton expects the supporters to turn out for the occasion.
"I'd like to think so. Saturday night footy, rivals, I think everyone's looking forward to the contest," he said.
If the Blues are victorious, it would be the first time since 2012 they have beaten the Magpies twice in the same season, after they won the round seven clash by 15 points.
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