TARRYN Thomas is North Melbourne's third NAB AFL Rising Star nominee within the first 12 rounds of the season.

The talented forward (who also pushes up into the midfield) was recognised for his efforts in round 12 against Gold Coast, and joins teammates Bailey Scott (round one) and Cam Zurhaar (round seven) in being nominated for the award.

Thomas, 19, kicked two goals against the Suns and set up teammates for another two, as well as finishing with 12 disposals at 75 per cent efficiency, 10 contested possessions, three inside 50s and two clearances.

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After making his debut in round two, Thomas has played 10 games this season, missing just the round five match when he was rested.

He is averaging 12.4 disposals and has kicked eight goals.

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Coach Rhyce Shaw has been impressed by Thomas' calmness under pressure.

"He's an incredibly talented player," Shaw said.

"I've never seen a young kid come into the competition and show as much composure as Tarryn does."

Thomas was drafted with pick eight in last year's NAB AFL Draft after North Melbourne matched Adelaide's bid for the talented youngster.

From Tasmanian side North Launceston, where he won a flag playing in the senior side, Thomas was a member of the Kangaroos' Next Generation Academy.

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He grew up in New South Wales where he played rugby league, making the switch to Australian Football when he moved to Tasmania at 12.

Thomas won the Hunter Harrison Medal as player of the Under-18 Academy Series, which is made up of Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane and GWS Academies, as well as Northern Territory and Tasmania.