Meet our Round Two Men’s Rising Star Nominee, Vincent O’Brien, Sydney University

Name: Vincent O’Brien

Nickname: Vinnie, Vin Diesel, Vincenzo

AFL Sydney Club: Sydney University

Position: Defender

Junior Club: Newtown Swans

What is one thing that we don’t know about this Rising Star that they are well known for around the club?

Vinnie is known for the quality of his football IQ and incredible work ethic, especial given his young age- he shows maturity far beyond his years.

What role do they play for the club both on and off the field?

Vinnie acts as a steady and reliable presence behind the ball, consistenly wins his one-on-ones on the field, and contributes greatly to the overall club culture off the field.

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Nomination Details

Reason for nomination this round:

Vinnie was one of our best on ground and finished second in players’ player voting in a big win against a talented UTS side. Both the offensive and defensive upsides in his game were on full display whilst acting as a steady and reliable presence behind the ball

Coach quote on Performance:

Vinnie was remarkable against UTS as a small defender. Despite his size, he rarely, if ever, lost a one-on-one and was clean and productive when breaking lines or controlling the footy with his 15 touches. The quality of his football IQ in his decision-making and off-ball running and patterns is extremely impressive, in general but especially when considering he only turned 16 in October last year. He’s also been important culturally to our group, leading by example with his work ethic, dedication to his physical development, and hunger and desire to improve and regain his spot with the Swans academy by season’s end. – Men’s Senior Coach, Tim Spehr