The Mittagong Lions rugby league junior will start off the bench in the Parramatta Eels' Round 12 clash with the Penrith Panthers at Pepper Stadium.

"I'm absolutely stoked with this opportunity," Alvaro said.

Alvaro could see anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes game time in the front row.

His debut is the result of almost 20 years of hard work.

"I'm just excited to be part of the team and play with these guys," Alvaro said.

"It's something I've been hoping for all year."

Parramatta is currently last on the NRL ladder with the Panthers in eighth, but Alvaro said the boys' preparation had been good all week.

"The attitude in the team is good, so hopefully we get the win," he said.

Tonight's match may be Alvaro's only opportunity to play this season due to salary cap restraints.

"I was cleared to play due to the number of injuries this week, so we'll see about any future opportunities," he said.

Alvaro's friends and family will make the trip out to Penrith to watch his first run in the NRL.