Hawthorn ruck Lucy Wales has landed a Round 9 AFLW Rising Star Nomination after playing an influential role in her team’s eight-point win over Port Adelaide on Sunday.

The 20-year-old amassed 20 disposals, including an equal team-high six clearances, along with six tackles and 14 hitouts, to earn a second Rising Star nod in as many seasons.

After playing every game in her debut year, Wales has continued to progress strongly in 2023, averaging 15.9 hitouts, 10.5 disposals, 7.9 contested possessions, 4.9 tackles and 2.9 clearances per game. 

The talented tall becomes the third Hawthorn player to receive a nomination this season, joining midfield duo Jasmine Fleming (Round 3) and Charlotte Baskaran (Round 6) in being recognised.

The Hawks now have the equal-most Rising Star nominations of any club this season, highlighting the growth of the team’s young brigade and underlining the bright future ahead for the brown and gold. 

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey said Wales was a deserving nominee.

“Following an impressive debut season, Lucy has continued her rapid rise in the ruck this year and it’s very pleasing to see her earn another Rising Star nomination,” Bailey said.

“Lucy is a real competitor in the middle and is always working hard to add further layers to her game each week - at just 20 years of age, we see her having a long and exciting career ahead at Hawthorn.

“Lucy, of course, now joins Jas and Charlotte as our third Rising Star nominee this season, which is a testament to the developing talent on our list.”