Callan Ward from the Western Bulldogs is the NAB AFL Rising Star Nominee for Round 18. Callan was a key figure in the Bulldogs 31-point victory over Fremantle at Docklands on Saturday, gathering 22 disposals, five marks and booting two goals.
The 19-year-old has played 15 matches this season playing through the Bulldogs midfield and across half forward, averaging 16 possessions and booting 12 goals.
Senior Coach, Rodney Eade said “we have been extremely pleased with Callan’s development this season. He is now playing a key role in the midfield, and this nomination is a testament to his persistence and work rate.” He made his AFL debut in 2008 and played six matches while completing his year-12 studies at Williamstown High.
From the Western Jets, Callan was selected by the Western Bulldogs with pick 19 in the 2007 NAB AFL Draft. Callan is the Western Bulldogs first NAB AFL Rising Star nominee for 2009.
Following each round of the home and away season, a panel of judges will select a NAB AFL Rising Star nominee. At the completion of the season, one of these nominees will be chosen as the 2009 NAB AFL Rising Star. The 2009 NAB AFL Rising Star will receive a personal investment folio and a dedicated personal banker, courtesy of the National Australia Bank. NAB will once again recognise the junior clubs that helped foster the early careers of the nominated players. NAB will present each of the 22 clubs with a NAB Club Recognition Award, a package of practical and financial resources designed to assist them in developing future champions. The NAB AFL Rising Star is the pinnacle of the NAB AFL Rising Stars Program, which supports grassroots players and football communities and helps young Australians fulfil their dream of playing in the AFL. The NAB AFL Rising Stars Program provides recognition and a clearly identifiable direction for a player's career, and comprises the following elements:
• NAB AFL Rising Star
• NAB AFL Draft
• NAB AFL Draft Camp
• NAB AFL Under 18 Championships
• AIS-AFL Academy
• NAB AFL Under 16 Championships
Last Modified on 20/11/2009 10:20