I thought I put up our list of eligible rising stars (in the order I reckon they have a shot) just for fun.

But I want to make a point about the eligibility - the rules say...

The winner must be under the age of 21 at January 1 of that year, must not have played more than 10 games to the start of that season.

Which means that Michael Newton with 10 games and aged 20 years and ten months, is eligible, but does not seem to be listed on any of the betting or info sites I've looked at.

Anyway, the list, which is not exhaustive but seems like the full set of likelies -

Michael Newton

Ricky Petterd

Simon Buckley

James Frawley

Cale Morton

Jace Bode

Colin Garland

Shane Valenti

Austin Wonaeamirri

Jack Grimes

Addam Maric

If selectors recognise that newton is eligible, he should gain a nomination and hopefully give a good challenge for the medal

Petterd should definitely be up there in the top 5 at the end of the year if he keeps going at the rate he was last year.

I'm also expecting Buckley to get nominated, and possible Morton and Valenti if they play. But, as with every year, there are heaps that deserve nominations that miss out (Bell rings (mind the pun) to mind)