AFL Sydney Rising Star nominees – Round Six

Men’s Round Six Rising Star nominee

Name: Jackson Barling

Nickname: Jacko

AFL Sydney Club: North Shore Bombers

Position: Inside Mid/Half Forward

Junior Club: Willoughby wildcats

Favourite activity to do outside of football: Playing other sports with mates.

What is one thing that we don’t know about this Rising Star that they are well known for around the club? I’m always around Gore Hill.

What role do they play for the club both on and off the field? Young player who is being immersed in the club and carrying on the culture of north shore.

The night before the game what will they most likely be doing? Eating pasta on the couch with the footy on.

Do they have any pre-game superstitions? Long warm ups are key.

Reason for nomination this round:

“Jacko was our best on ground in a good game against Sydney University. Playing his first premier division game for 2019 and after a strong academy series with the Swans, Jacko had an excellent four quarter game.”

Coach quote on Performance:

“Mixing his year 12 studies with his football aspirations there is a lot happening for Jacko this year. On Saturday, joining our team for his first hit out this year, Jacko put on a dominant display – winning inside ball, making good decisions and had nice skill execution. Now off for Allies commitments Jacko leaves in good form and should be confident about playing well for the Allies. We can’t wait to have him back for the back end of the year. Well done on a great game Jacko.”

Women’s Round Six Rising Star nominee

Name: Sarah Ford

Nickname: Fordy (The Better Ford)

AFL Sydney Club: East Coast Eagles 

Position: Rover

Junior Club: N/A

Favourite activity to do outside of football: Hockey

What is one thing that we don’t know about this Rising Star that they are well known for around the club? Helping organise social activities for the club with her brother.

What role do they play for the club both on and off the field? Captain of The Women’s Premier Division team and a key leader in the Eagles Junior Academy program.

The night before the game what will they most likely be doing? Eating spaghetti and watching TV. 

Do they have any pre-game superstitions? Last person to be taped ready for the game.

Reason for nomination this round: 

“Sarah has featured in the best players (either best or second – against some quality opposition) in all 5 games she has played, and had an excellent game against UTS last week, leading the team to a 25 point victory.”

Coach quote on Performance:

“Sarah has played a pivotal role in the team’s success this year and as Captain, has lead by example both on and off the field. She sets high standards for herself and her commitment and endeavour at training lifts the entire squad. Sarah’s skills and fitness are extremely good and this has been recognised by the AFLW Giants, who have selected her in their VFL squad. Against UTS, she dominated the clearances and contested possessions and brought many of her team mates into the game while setting up several scoring opportunities. Sarah excels in all aspects of the game and one of her core strengths is her “instructional talk”, which is extremely important for any team, and especially important for a team that has several first year players. In addition, she is able to play forward, back or on ball making her a very flexible and valued member of the team. Congratulations on your nomination, “The Better Ford”.”

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