AFL Sydney Rising Star nominees – Round One

Image courtesy of Western Wolves Media.

AFL Sydney Women’s Round One Rising Star nominee

Name: Jessica Urquhart

AFL Sydney Club: Western Wolves

Position: Full Forward

Junior Club: N/A

Favourite activity to do outside of football: Going to the beach, music festivals and hanging out with mates

What is one thing that we don’t know about this Rising Star that they are well known for around the club? Safe hands and a reliable drop punt!

What role do they play for the club both on and off the field? Jess been an impact player for us in the forward line and has been working hard to improve and develop her footy

The night before the game what will they most likely be doing? Try and have an early night, get a good dinner in and chill out

Do they have any pre-game superstitions? Always has to have avo and eggs on toast pre-game and then pump the music in the car on the way to the game!

Reason for nomination this round: Jess kicked a bag (5 goals) over the weekend and showed her strength and skill in our opening game for the season.

Captain or quote on performance:

“Jess is a reliable full forward. She has worked on her footy skills over the past few months and that’s really starting to pay of for her on the field. Jess has helped to kick our 2018 season off with a bang and we look forward to watching her continue to develop throughout the season”.

Matthew Buskariol

AFL Sydney Men’s Round One Rising Star nominee

Name: Matthew Buskariol

Nickname: Buska

AFL Sydney Club: North Shore

Position: Full Forward

Junior Club: North Ryde Dockers and Mosman/Willoughby Swans

Favourite activity to do outside of football: Buska’s favourite hobby outside of footy would be basketball. He loves to watch and play in the backyard and analysing the statistical side of the game

What is one thing that we don’t know about this Rising Star that they are well known for around the club? The thing that Buska would be well known for around the club is how much he cares about North Shore and the passion he has for the footy club. Buska is always keen to get involved and help out the club in anyway he can

What role do they play for the club both on and off the field? On the field Buska has seen his role change from being U19s Captain and a one-out full forward, to a young player keen to learn and improve his game, playing more of a dynamic running half forward role. Off-field roles include being a mentor for U19s players as well as Club Treasurer in 2018

The night before the game what will they most likely be doing? Home from work early and have a big pasta dinner. Also watches the footy with his Dad the night before a game

Do they have any pre-game superstitions? Wake up at 8.30am and do 45 minutes of yoga and stretching before shooting some hoops and going for a quick swim just in time for a late breakfast before heading to the game.

Reason for nomination this round: Against Manly on Saturday, Buska kicked 5 goals in his first senior game in over 3 years. Starting at full forward, he provided a strong target and also was very impressive with his forward pressure

Coach quote on Performance:

“We were very pleased for Buska having a strong performance against Manly on the weekend, kicking 5 goals after being selected at full forward. Buska originally made his debut as a 16 year old and has had to wait over 3 years for another opportunity in Premier Division football.

The last few years has since Buska be part of our U19s program, playing in four consecutive Grand Finals and captaining the team. This pre-season was important for Buska’s development and transition to senior football, working hard at every session and with excellent trial form, Buska took his opportunity on the weekend to hold down a key position.

Well done Buska and we look forward to seeing you have a great year.”

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