Gold Coast SUNS young gun Bailey Humphrey has earnt the Round 9 Rising Star nomination following a prolific match against West Coast.
Humphrey had 20 disposals at 70 per cent efficiency, kicked a goal and took five marks in the club’s 70-point win against the West Coast Eagles.
The number six selection from the 2022 NAB AFL Draft collected 10 contested possessions, five tackles, five inside-50s, and 404 metres-gained.
“I’ve been aiming to play some consistent footy and get in the team each week so it’s good to get some reward for effort,” Humphrey said.
“I feel like the West Coast game was probably my best for the season so far and I’m just keen to continue to build on the start I’ve made to my career.
“I’m pretty much living my dream playing footy for my job up on the Gold Coast.”
The 18-year-old made his debut in Round Four against St Kilda and has grown in confidence each week, impressing with his clean hands and physicality in the contest.
His trajectory has been significant, with 15 disposals and five tackles in Round Eight's narrow loss to Melbourne.
Humphrey captained Gippsland Power last year in the NAB League (now Coates Talent League), leading the team to a minor premiership and a preliminary final.
He finished runner up in the 2022 Morrish Medal which is awarded to the player voted best and fairest in the Coates Talent League by the field umpires.
Humphrey is from Moe – a small town in East Victoria where he played for the Moe Lions Football Netball Club in the Gippsland League.
2023 AFL Rising Star nominees
Round One - Harry Sheezel (North Melbourne)
Round Two - Will Ashcroft (Brisbane Lions)
Round Three - Reuben Ginbey (West Coast Eagles)
Round Four - Mitchito Owens (St Kilda)
Round Five - Max Michalanney (Adelaide Crows)
Round Six - Jai Culley (West Coast Eagles)
Round Seven - Finn Callaghan (GWS GIANTS)
Round Eight - Mattaes Phillipou (St Kilda)
Round Nine - Bailey Humphrey (Gold Coast SUNS)
