Essendon’s Dean Rioli has received an inaugural award recognising emerging aboriginal players in the AFL.

Rioli is the first recipient of the “Marn Grook Award” after playing an integral roll in helping Essendon to the top of the ladder.

Marn Grook is an Aboriginal term for “Game Ball”. The award acknowledges the courage, skills and talent of indigenous players only.

A committee made of up Essendon’s Michael Long, AFLPA Chief Executive Officer Dr Rob Kerr and ATSIC Chairman Geoff Clark judged this year’s award.

Rioli was announced the winner at the Ansett Rising Star Awards.

Rob Kerr said the inaugural award is an appropriate way to recognise young indigenous players.

“There are more than 50 Indigenous players currently in the AFL, many of whom have relocated and overcome adversity to reach AFL level.

“This award will give younger Indigenous players additional incentive to perform on the field,” he said.

ATSIC Chairman Geoff Clark said “ATSIC is keen to develop a strong working relationship with the AFLPA, so that we can promote, support and assist all current and future Indigenous AFL footballers.

“Indigenous footballers are important role models and their achievements are already a great source of pride and inspiration to their people,” Mr Clark said.

This award follows on from the AFLPA two day Indigenous Players’ Forum that was held in November 2000, and will be awarded annually to the best emerging Indigenous player who has been at AFL level for no longer than 3 years.