The 2025 season is nearly underway, and a suite of youngsters are set to make their case for the AFL Rising Star award after what is regarded as one of the deepest draft pools in AFL history.
Meanwhile, a few overage talents are predicted to blossom in their second seasons at AFL level, making this year's Rising Star contest as competitive as ever.
Quickly, a refresher on the criteria to be eligible for the award.
- Players must be under the age of 21 as of January 1, 2025.
- Players can only have played 10 AFL games or less in previous seasons.
- Players must not be suspended at AFL or state-league level during the season.
Last year, second-year Cat Ollie Dempsey took home the award, albeit thanks to in-season suspensions to Harley Reid and Sam Darcy, who were tipped to claim the award over the Geelong forward.
But in a stacked crop of talent, this year's race is anyone's for the taking. Here is Zero Hanger's verdict on the top contenders for this year's Rising Star award.
6. Levi Ashcroft
If Ashcroft can forge a spot inside Brisbane's best 23, that would already be proof enough of the youngster's talents.
However, the deep pool of talent at the Lions may restrict Ashcroft's chances at claiming the Rising Star.
Although Ashcroft will be playing for a side expected to win the majority of their games, providing more opportunity to play well in the majority of his games, as he'll be well-supported by Brisbane's system.
Arguably the best talent in the draft, whether Ashcroft is afforded enough opportunity compared to his draft class counterparts could be the difference maker for a Rising Star win.
