Western Bulldogs rookie, Jason Johannisen will make his AFL debut this weekend against the Kangaroos after impressing with a string of solid performances in the VFL this season.

Senior Coach Brendan McCartney was full of praise for the youngster and said the 19-year-old has improved off the back of listening and learning from club leaders and development coaches.

Watch Jason Johannisen speak exclusively to BulldogsTV on the media player above about his debut. 

“He’s a good story,” McCartney said.

“His career really kicked on at this Club when we put the right people around him, he jumped on board with some really good influences in the playing group and attached himself to some really exceptional development coaches we have here.”

While the lightning-quick rebounding defender still has some strength and size gains to make, he has added over 10kgs to his light frame in 18 months at the Kennel.

View Jason Johannisen's player profile here.

Averaging over 22 possessions per game in the VFL as a small defender, Johannisen is best-known for his ability to break lines and run and carry.

McCartney is buoyed by what Members and Fans might see from Johannisen this Saturday afternoon.

“Our supporters are going to see a young kid play that physically has a lot of developing to do… but he’s got attributes that the game requires and will add to our team .”

“He’s an exciting talent,” McCartney said.