First-year draftee Will Hayward hopes to create some headaches for the GWS’ defenders when the Swans do battle with the Giants on Friday night.

The 18-year-old, who was selected with Pick 21 in last year’s National Draft, says he's “over the moon” after hearing the news from coach John Longmire himself earlier this week that he'd earned his first crack at senior football in the Swans’ second game of the JLT Communtiy Series.

Recruited for his elite speed and explosive leap, Hayward will spend most of his allotted game time in the forward half where he’ll aim to be a spark around goal, much in the same vein as Tom Papley in 2016.

“I'll probably slot into a forward pocket when I get my chance," Hayward said.

“Hopefully I can keep the defenders on their toes a bit with my run and defensive pressure.

“A few goals won't go astray either.”

Hayward's pre-season has been promising yet hindered somewhat by a foot injury suffered on the eve of the draft.

He's been eased into full contact work over the past four months and feels ready to make the step up to AFL football.

The South Australian native knows that step up will be more like a leap, especially against a GWS outfit who pride themselves on quick ball movement and a backline that back themselves.

But he's confident the work he's put into his first preseason can prepared him well enough for the task.

“I'm so keen to get out there,” he added.

“I've tried to stay as relaxed as I can during the week, stick to my normal preparation, but no doubt a few nerves will creep in closer to the first bounce.

“I’ve just got to remember to play my role and enjoy myself - hopefully everything will take care of itself after that.”

Of the Swans’ first-year draftees, Hayward will join Ollie Florent, Jack Maibaum, Darcy Cameron, Robbie Fox and Sam Fisher to have featured in this pre-season competition.