Saints gun headlines first round of Rising Star nominations

AFL Barwon has announced the first nominations for the Times News Group Rising Star award across the GFL and BFL football and netball competitions.

The award aims to celebrate the top young guns in Geelong sport tipped to become stars of the future as they gain experience in their respective competitions.

Nominations are sourced from clubs and a committee from AFL Barwon then finalises the decision. There will be five players nominated per competition across the 2025 season.

GFL Football – Fletcher Hughes (St Mary’s)

The young ruckman has been a standout in his debut senior season, averaging 35 hit outs per game including a season-high 57 in round seven against North Shore.

A key reason for St Mary’s midfield dominance, Hughes has also been a consistent contributor around the ground with 16 disposals and 3.5 score involvements per game.

BFL Football – Jack Henderson (Barwon Heads)

Henderson has enjoyed a breakout season, kicking 25 goals in 11 games while averaging 14 disposals (seven contested) and 6.5 score involvements per game.

Very good in the air and nimble on the ground, Henderson is a fast-leading key forward who has stepped up from Geelong Falcons duties to senior football. He is also part of Werribee’s VFL Development program, highlighting his potential to play at a higher level.

 

Senior Women’s Football – Brydi Lewis (St Mary’s)

A powerful young forward, Lewis has kicked 26 goals in 10 games and been named best on ground four times. Her standout performance came in round two with a season-high seven goals against Anglesea.

Lewis has quickly become one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking options and a key figure in St Mary’s push for finals.

GFL Netball – Tilly Baker (Lara)

At just 16-years-old, Baker has impressed in her debut A Grade

season, shooting at 85 per cent and already earning selection in the Boroondara Express Development Squad.

Composed under pressure and accurate in the ring, she has quickly established herself as one of the Cats’ key attacking options and a rising star of the competition.

BFL Netball – Hayley Toull (Modewarre)

Having played all her junior netball at Modewarre, Toull has complemented her club experience with representative teams and other competitions.

Always eager to embrace every opportunity, the 17-year-old was rewarded this year with selection in both Modewarre’s A Grade team and Under-17s side. Her versatility and commitment have made her one of the region’s brightest young talents.