Sydney Swans debutant Dan Robinson has set a strong foundation for a career at AFL level after an impressive performance against Carlton at the SCG.

Robinson gathered 15 disposals and kicked a goal during his first game at the top level, impressing with his ability to stay calm under pressure.

A former NSW Scholarship holder, Robinson was rewarded with his first game after strong performances with the Swans NEAFL side over the last few months.

Coach John Longmire was full of praise for the versatile utility following the match on Friday night.

“He would have been close last year in getting a game for us but he was on our rookie list so we put him up to our senior list,” Longmire said.

“Coming off our rookie list it is a really good story to come in and play Friday night football and be a part of it and play well.

Robinson was told he would be taking the field for his first game on Thursday when he was called into the match committee room by the coach.

“I have never seen a kid grin so much in his life, he had the biggest smile when we told him he was getting a game,” Longmire said.

“It is one of the great jobs in footy to see a kid play his first game and do so well, it is very exciting.”

The versatility he brings to the side was something that impressed the coach most following the match.

“He had 15 possessions and a goal, he was clean early and that is not easy to do coming from a lower level then coming into the senior company and being clean,” Longmire said.

“It was certainly noticeable in his first quarter how clean he was and composed.

“That is what we have seen at reserves level but you are never sure if you will see the same at senior level.

“He can play forward, midfield and even a bit at half back so it is just a great effort from him to play so well tonight.”