ESSENDON ruck sensation Steph Wales and Greater Western Sydney's breakout defender Tarni Evans are the NAB AFLW Rising Star nominees for round eight.

The duo were recognised for their contributions to their side's respective wins across the weekend.

Wales had 21 hitouts, three clearances and seven tackles against Sydney in round eight, while Evans has 12 touches and kicked a goal.

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Tarni Evans and Steph Wales star in round eight

Watch the highlights and find out why Tarni Evans and Steph Wales were nominated for the NAB AFLW S7 Rising Star in round eight

Wales, whose twin sister Lucy received a Rising Star nomination in round seven, is relatively new to football, having played one season of VFLW before being snapped up by the Bombers in the 2022 NAB AFLW Draft.

She previously played basketball, and footy at a local level as a junior.

Evans, who hails from Tathra on New South Wales' south coast, has enjoyed a strong season for the Giants and kicked her first career goal during round eight.