The AFL SportsReady/HOSTPLUS Rising Star Award is a new initiative developed to acknowledge particular trainees who show outstanding commitment and enthusiasm throughout their traineeship.

AFL SportsReady is pleased to announce that Brent Carlisle from Victoria and Leah Haliwood from Queensland are the inaugural winners of the 2008 award.

Carlisle, completed his traineeship at Melbourne's Marcellin College in PE and was honoured at the Victorian AFL SportsReady graduation ceremony on April 4 in front of 320 guests including 100 graduating AFL SportsReady trainees. The event was held in the MCG’s Members Dining room and the award presented by former aerial ski champion and current MP, Kirstie Marshall (OAM).

Haliwood completed her traineeship at AFL Queensland last year studying a Certificate III in Business whilst she undertook the duties of AFL Queensland's receptionist. She was presented her award from Arthur Antonellos from HOSTPLUS in conjunction with the Lion's Jonathan Brown on March 27 at Queensland's graduation ceremony which was held at the Queensland Cricketers Club.

AFL SportsReady would like to congratulate both winners of this prestigious award.

For more information regarding AFL SportsReady Traineeships, please visit www.aflsportsready.com.au