Charlie Ballard had his best year to date as shown in a top five finish in this year’s Club Champion.

Forming a strong combination with fellow key defender Sam Collins, Ballard has gone from strength-to-strength in 2021.

As one of the best intercept markers in the AFL, Ballard often found himself saving the day in defence for this SUNS.

Ballard was able to play 21 games in 2021 in his most consistent year at the club.

Continuing to grow into his role, the 22-year-old is part of a young brigade who will continue their development in season 2022.

Game of the year

Ballard’s best game came in the round 17 win over GWS, a game where the SUNS put out a complete team showing.

He had 19 touches and nine marks, all of which were intercepts, highlighting his defensive presence that day.

Stats Sheet

Brought into the team as a key defender, it is no surprise that Ballard’s most impressive statistic is intercept marking.

Ranked 13^th in the competition, Ballard averaged 2.9 intercept marks this season demonstrating his defensive ability in the air.