Rising Star nod for former RAMS player
Former NSW/ACT RAMS player Luke Breust has been named the Round 15 NAB AFL Rising Star nominee following his outstanding performance for Hawthorn on the weekend.
The 20-year-old midfielder was one of Hawthorn’s best against Collingwood at the MCG last Sunday with 16 possessions and five marks.
Luke made his AFL debut in Round Eight and has played every game since. He has cemented his place in the senior team with four goals against the Gold Coast Suns, three goals against Fremantle and two against Collingwood.
Recruited from Temora Football Club in New South Wales, Luke represented the NSW/ACT RAMS in the 2008 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships. He was selection 47 in the 2009 NAB AFL Rookie Draft. Luke played 20 games for the Box Hill Hawks in 2010.
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson said Luke is one of the club’s young players who has stepped up this season.
“In his eight games this year Luke has shown though his excellent agility, tackling ability and talent around goal why he has earned his spot in the side,” Clarkson said.
“It has been pleasing that Luke, along with other youngsters Matt Suckling, Shane Savage and Liam Shiels, have not only earned a senior berth this season through their application and talent, but they have all contributed to the side with some fantastic performances.
“Since joining the Club in 2009 Luke has impressed with his hard work and determination, and is most deserving of this nomination.”
Luke is the second Hawk to be nominated for the rising star this year following Shane Savage in Round Eight. Luke is also joined by two former RAMS players in the Hawks’ starting-22 in Matt Suckling and Isaac Smith.
