Geelong’s Ollie Dempsey has been named the AFL Round 1 Rising Star nominee.
The 21-year-old kicked three goals from 15 possessions and seven marks in the win over St Kilda at Kardinia Park on Saturday night.
Cats coach Chris Scott broke the news to the youngster during a team meeting.
“It was a really cool experience being told that in front of all the boys,” Dempsey said.
And he said the coaching staff have helped develop his game.
“Nigel Lappin’s been a good one over the last couple of years.
“Then there’s obviously James Rahilly coming this year as a forwards coach, both those guys together have been so good for me.”
Dempsey is a former basketballer who was selected in the 2022 Rookie Draft at pick 13.
The Cats travel to Adelaide to take on the Crows this Friday night.
