AFL small forwards and genuine excitement machines Kysaiah Pickett, Shai Bolton and Nick Watson have been shortlisted as the Mark of the Year finalists.
The trio shared the All-Australian stage last week, and are in competition to secure the $50,000 and two million Velocity Points.
The overall winner will be determined by the AFL All Australian selection panel and announced at the 2026 Brownlow Medal on Monday, 21 September.
Pickett has been wanting to claim both the Mark and Goal of the year awards, and is in the running to achieve the rare feat in 2026.
The Demon gun took flight against Richmond in Round 7, using Tigers defender Campbell Gray as a stepladder on the wing, extending his arms fully before crashing to the ground.
"That is ridiculous!" 🤩
Kysaiah Pickett is the @VirginAustralia Mark of the Year nominee for round seven. pic.twitter.com/4OjEa1qVBa
— AFL (@AFL) April 30, 2026
Bolton is known to hit the skies when attempting what appears to be the impossible.
The Dockers superstar climbed over teammate Patrick Voss and Geelong defender Jake Kolodjasnij in Round 15 at Optus Stadium.
High flying Shai 🛫
Fremantle's Shai Bolton is the round 15 @VirginAustralia Mark of the Year nominee. pic.twitter.com/adsuHDdRgv
— AFL (@AFL) June 25, 2026
Last, but certainly not least, was Wizard Watson's Round 24 grab against West Coast in wet conditions.
The Hawks firestarter elevated above Eagles defender Liam Baker before almost leaning horizontal before coming back to earth.
Watson and Baker couldn't help but smile and laugh.
The Wizard reached into his bag of tricks! 🪄
Nick Watson is the round 24 @VirginAustralia Mark of the Year nominee. pic.twitter.com/bEJ5FP5EFx
— AFL (@AFL) August 27, 2026
Fans can now vote for their favourite goal at afl.com.au/goal-of-the-year
Everyone who votes for their favourite goal will also have a chance to win $5,000, thanks to Coles.
