Hill, Lovett win Round 13 Mark of the Year nominationsIT is heartening to see youngsters in the AFL holding on to their football instincts and natural inclination to do the outrageous despite the ultra professionalism of their environment. Count the Western Bulldogs' Josh Hill among that group.
Hill has risen as a top Dog at Whitten Oval, one of many in a multi-pronged attack that has seen the Bulldogs cement third spot on the AFL ladder and certain top-four prospects.
Hill was earmarked as a player with a special talent. But in 2005, his playing future at the WAFL was in doubt. West Perth and Claremont were involved in a tug-of-war for the right to keep Hill; the Tigers arguing he was theirs due to Zone rules (Kimberley), the Falcons insistent on a father-son rule that should be honoured. The issue was resolved and Hill played for Claremont. At the 2006 AFL draft, he was selected by the Bulldogs at number 6. He made his debut the following season. In just his third game, Hill was nominated for the AFL Rising Star award (Round 2, 2008).
The 20-year-old Hill and Essendon speedster Andrew Lovett were this week nominated for the AFL's Mark of the Year award for their aerial efforts in Round 13, joining Daniel Motlop (Port Adelaide), and Bombers pair Nathan Lovett-Murray and Patrick Ryder in that group who've officially bedazzled us this season with their spectacular aerial abilities.
2009 Mark of the Year nominees
Round 13
Josh Hill (Western Bulldogs)
Superb leap on the goal line
Andrew Lovett (Essendon)Spectacular leap and mark over opponent
Round 9
Nathan Lovett-Murray (Essendon)
Climbed high taking a spectacular pack mark
Patrick Ryder (Essendon)Yet another big leap and great mark
Round 2
Daniel Motlop (Port Adelaide)Spectacular leap over two opponents
* Click here to view the
AFL Mark of the Year nominations for this round.
DARREN MONCRIEFF
Darren@AboriginalFootball.com.au
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Last Modified on 02/07/2009 00:11