The speedy midfielder's selection was foreshadowed last week when he was named the club's nominated rookie and it was confirmed by Bombers assistant coach Scott Camporeale at Windy Hill on Thursday morning.
"Ben Howlett will play his first game, which is a great story considering what will happen in the next few years with Gold Coast and Western Sydney coming in," Camporeale said.
"The 21 to 22 year-olds that have missed out in previous drafts are going to get looked at."
Howlett, 21, was selected at No.30 in the 2010 NAB AFL Rookie Draft after winning the best and fairest at WAFL club Peel Thunder in 2009.
Camporeale said his perseverance through the state leagues and his dedication during the pre-season had paid off.
"To Ben's credit, he played in the WAFL, won a best and fairest, got on the rookie list here and his pre-season form has been fantastic, so we're really pleased we've got him in for round one."
More to follow
