Brisbane Lions defender Harris Andrews has been named as the NAB Rising Star nominee for Round 18, becoming the first graduate of the Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy to win the honour.
The 18-year-old Queenslander was one of his team's best with 22 disposals, 12 marks and near-flawless efficiency against the Geelong Cats’ experienced forward line last Saturday at Simonds Stadium.
Standing at 200cm, Andrews' height and athleticism have seen him become a key young player for the Club since along his AFL debut in Round 3 against Richmond at the Gabba.
Amongst players currently eligible for the NAB Rising Star, Andrews is ranked 1st in "one-percenters" and 2nd in total contested marks.
He has become an instant hit with fans thanks to his sure hands, calmness under pressure, accurate disposal and decision-making skills well beyond his 18 years.
Andrews has played 14 of 15 Senior games since then, winning a host of fans with his sure hands, calmness under pressure, accurate disposal and decision-making skills well beyond his 18 years and light frame.
Commentators across TV and radio have repeatedly sung his praises across the season and his NAB Rising Star nomination will be well-received.
Andrews, who has played 14 Senior games this season, spent his entire junior football career (more than 200 games) with the Aspley Juniors in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
A graduate of the Hyundai Help For Kids Lions Academy, he was selected at Pick No.61 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, after representing Queensland at the 2014 NAB AFL Under-18 Championships and also playing six games for Queensland in the TAC Cup.
Brisbane Lions Coach Justin Leppitsch said Andrews' development has been one of the highlights for the team this season.
"Harris has been fantastic this year. For a young kid thrown into the fire, he has been cool under pressure and shown us he's going to be a player of the future for our footy club," he said.
