An illness to tough utility player Pat McGinnity has opened the door for teammate Gerrick Weedon to make his senior debut against Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

McGinnity was originally selected in the starting 18 for the clash with the Bombers, but reported in sick this morning and was withdrawn. His place in the 25-man squad has been taken by Brad Sheppard, with Weedon elevated to the 22.

Should Weedon play his first game he will become the 200^th player to represent the club since it entered the expanded VFL competition 25 years ago.

A hard-nosed forward, Weedon was selected at No.22 in the 2009 AFL National Draft and played a handful of senior games with Claremont last year. His development has taken quantum leaps forward this season and he has been ultra-consistent for the Tigers.

Originally from Broome, the 19-year-old half-forward has inherited the No.44 guernsey made famous by his idol, David Wirrpanda.

His inclusion leaves Ashton Hams, Tom Swift and Sheppard, who has not played in the senior team since the round two win over Port Adelaide, as the emergencies. Hams travelled with the team which left for Melbourne this afternoon.