XBlades AFL Sydney Round 9 Men’s Rising Star

AFL Sydney is pleased to announce that the 2017 Round 9 Rising Star is Kieren Briggs from the Pennant Hills Demons.

Kieren is a former Pennant Hills Junior where he played 97 games over 8 seasons. He got his first taste of footy at the senior club in 2015, playing with the Under 19’s when still only 15 years of age.

Since being selected to represent the GWS Academy, Kieren has made limited appearances for Pennant Hills over the past two seasons, playing half a season of Under 19’s in 2016.

This season he has successfully fulfilled his commitments to the GWS Academy Under 18’s and has also been selected to play for the GWS NEAFL side on five occasions.

Kieren made his Premier Division debut against a hot Sydney University side in Round 7 this season. Whilst the result wasn’t favourable to Pennant Hills, Kieren acquitted himself competently and kicked a goal in his senior debut for the Club.

In his second match last weekend, Kieren was unanimously voted by his team-mates as Pennant Hills’ best on the day, announcing his arrival as a rare football talent with a future of great potential.

Still only seventeen years old, Kieren was asked to perform the role of No 1 ruckman, and he distinguished himself in a masterful display of tap work, contested marking and re-bound football. He displayed a level of maturity way beyond his years and won the admiration of his team-mates and coaching staff.

Standing at 199 cm and 94 kg, Kieren’s stature and physique make him perfectly adapted for Australian Rules football. He’s also versatile and mobile, with quick hands and wits, and can take contested marks and has a handy long kick.

Coach Chris Yard has been highly impressed with the youngster this year.

“On the few occasions we have been able to watch him, Kieren has already impressed everyone with his obvious talent,” said Yard.

“He has got good size, great skills and plays with confidence and flair. He has very quickly demonstrated his willingness and readiness to compete at the highest level.

“He comes across as highly motivated and a bright football future beckons. Whilst we welcome the opportunity to have Kieren playing regularly at Pennant Hills, we nevertheless watch with interest to see where his football future takes him.”

AFL Sydney congratulates Kieran on his Round 9 Rising Star nomination.