Click here to watch Fasolo's press conference on YouTube.
Collingwood’s first selection in last year’s draft, Alex Fasolo, has won the round 22 NAB AFL Rising Star nomination.
Fasolo, 19, made his debut in the round 12 Queen’s Birthday clash with Melbourne at the MCG and has played a total of nine matches this year including the last eight.
The strong-bodied small forward from East Fremantle in Western Australia was consistent over four quarters for the Magpies during their win against Brisbane on Saturday night at the MCG with 19 disposals. He also kicked two goals.
In his last four matches Fasolo has averaged 16 disposals and kicked nine goals including five against Essendon in round 19, where he also had 18 touches and used the ball with 100 per cent efficiency.
As the club’s first pick (selection 45 overall) in last year’s draft, Fasolo was given the famous number 35 guernsey previously worn by Magpie greats Simon Prestigiacomo and Peter Daicos.
Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse said Alex had made a valuable contribution to the side and has shown consistent development throughout the year.
“Alex has developed at a level that has now placed him in a strong position to stretch for the finals.
“We know he has a natural talent that is for all to see but he has also developed strong defensive skills to fit in our team and has been a model of consistency since entering the side. I am delighted for him,” he said.
Following each round of the home and away season, a panel of judges will select a NAB AFL Rising Star nominee. At the completion of the season, one of these nominees will be chosen as the 2011 NAB AFL Rising Star.
The 2011 NAB AFL Rising Star will receive a personal investment folio and a dedicated personal banker, courtesy of NAB.
Fasolo will speak to the media before training later today.
Collingwood has boosted 26 AFL Rising Star nominations since the award was instituted in 1993.
2011
Alex Fasolo
2010
Ben Reid
2009
Dayne Beams
Brad Dick
2008
Nathan Brown
2007
Tyson Goldsack
Martin Clarke
Scott Pendlebury
2006
Heath Shaw
Dale Thomas
2005
Travis Cloke
2004
Ted Richards
2003
Richard Cole
2002
Alan Didak
Mark McGough
Jason Cloke
2001
Ryan Lonie
2000
Josh Fraser
Damian Adkins
1999
Paul Licuria
Nick Davis
1997
Mal Michael
1996
Andrew Schauble
1994
John Hassall
Kent Butcher
1993
Saverio Rocca
