Meet our Round Seventeen Men’s Rising Star Nominee, Oscar Clifton, UNSW-ES Bulldogs

Player Profile:

Name: Oscar Clifton

Nickname: Big O

Position: Ruck/Forward

Junior Club: East Sydney Junior AFL Club

AFL Sydney Club: UNSW Eastern Suburb Bulldogs

 

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

Oscar hates cold water and struggles to get his whole body in the water for recovery sessions.

 

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

Oscar is a great young player from the UNSW-ES junior pathway, making his way through Eastern Suburbs JAFC and the Swans Academy.

Always smiling, Big O never misses a session often training with the U19s and then again with the Senior Squad – week in, week out.

A leader amongst the younger players in the Bulldog’s senior squad, Oscar has a bright future ahead.

 

 

Reason for nomination this round:

In just his fourth game at Premier Division level, Oscar delivered a performance well beyond his experience, playing with composure, grit, and purpose throughout the entire match. In the ruck or pushing forward, he didn’t put a foot wrong all day.

Oscar was instrumental in giving the Bulldogs win, consistently providing first use to the UNSW-ES midfielders through his dominant ruck work. His ability to compete both in the air and at ground level made him a constant threat and a valuable asset in all areas of the ground.

What truly stood out was his relentless work rate — covering the ground tirelessly, moving from contest to contest with intensity and intent. His impact was felt in every quarter, and his contribution was a key factor in the Bulldogs’ strong win.

This performance was a significant step forward in Oscar’s development, and if this trajectory continues, he’s certainly a player to watch at the Premier Division level.

 

Coach quote on Performance:

“Oscar (The Big O) has been building his game nicely since coming into the senior side. The way he played on the weekend against the top of the table side is such an exciting sign of things to come. His presence in the ruck really set the tone for our midfield group, and with 19 disposals, his follow up and work rate around the ground played a big part in a strong team performance. A natural competitor and great athlete, the weekend showed the quality of player he already is, and still at just 17, there is plenty to be excited about”.

– Robbie Chancellor (UNSW Eastern Suburb Bulldogs– Men’s Premier Division Coach)