Demon Debut | Moniz-Wakefield is having his moment

Break in

Three years after first arriving in Melbourne, Andy Moniz-Wakefield will get his moment at AFL level, confirmed to make his career debut when the Dees take on the Lions.

Moniz-Wakefield learned the special news on Tuesday afternoon, with Steven May surprising him with the announcement in front of the playing group.

The 20-year-old has started to build towards that opportunity, with his AFL selection coming off the back of incredible consistency in the VFL.

Through his 11 games this year, the quarterback has averaged nearly 25 disposals and 15 tackles, with his most memorable performance coming just last week when he collected 35 disposals, 22 tackles and 10 interceptions.

Moniz-Wakefield first joined the club in November 2021 as a Grade B rookie, selected through the club’s connection with the Northern Territory’s Next Generation Academy region.

Originally from Darwin, the young Demon grew up playing both rugby and football before making his name in the AFL world, playing for the NT Thunder during NAB league games.

When he initially arrived at the Dees, he spent time in the forward line before making a transition to the other end of the pitch 12 months ago.

Moniz-Wakefield has now become a statement player in the middle of the Casey Demons backline and will now add more depth to Melbourne’s formidable defence.

Known for his accurate kicking and explosive speed, the Demon will be a welcome addition to the side’s final 23 as they prepare to challenge Brisbane at the Gabba on Friday night.