The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has confirmed Lewis Holland has been added to the Men's Olympic squad as the 13th player for the Tokyo Games.
The announcement came following a change in IOC policy in early July surrounding squad regulations.
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Previously, the 13th player served only as permanent replacements in case of injury or other circumstances for the Olympic squads.
However, the change ensures these players will be available to be selected across the tournament.
Holland had been racing the clock to be fit, initially left out of the squad as he dealt with a hamstring injury.
"It’s unfortunate that he got his injury but Lewy is a natural leader and wherever he goes, he is revered,” coach Tim Walsh said on Holland at the time of the team's selection
“He’s still a huge factor and we’re fighting hard to have him fully fit as the 13th man.”
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With the change in relegations confirmed, this allows Walsh to select a fresh 12-player side for each game of the Olympics.
Before these changes were flagged, the gold-medal winning coaches was already stressing the importance of that 13th player as the men's side pushes for their maiden Olympic medal.
“We don’t see it as a 12 (player squad). That 13th man has a huge role,” Walsh added.
“In nearly every tournament, you’ll see that player come in whether it’s the first or sixth game and have a massive impact.
"Regardless of who that player is at the Olympics, we’re a squad of 13 and post-Olympics we’re a whole program.
“That 13th player has an integral role.”
