Zaharakis wins nomination
April 7th 2009 01:03
ESSENDON youngster David Zaharakis has been rewarded for his impressive debut against Fremantle with the NAB Rising Star nomination for round two.
Zaharakis was among his side's best in the 38-point win over the Dockers with 21 possessions and 10 marks.
The 19-year-old broke his way into Essendon's senior side after collecting 33 possessions and booting seven goals with Bendigo in a VFL practice match the week before.
Essendon coach Matthew Knights said he was impressed with every aspect of Zaharakis' game against Fremantle.
“From a whole package point of view we were pleased because not only did he win the ball but his disposal and decision making was really good for a young player. He also chased, tackled and harassed – he put as much energy into this part of his game as any other part," Knights said.
“As a match committee we loved that he brings a real energy and enthusiasm to his game and that is infectious on the team. David allows himself to make good decisions during a game because he has good composure and balance with the ball in his hands.”
Zaharakis, who was selected with pick 23 in last year's draft, captained Vic Metro to the AFL Under 18 Championship title last year and also earned All-Australian honours.
The promising youngster capped off a stellar junior career with selection in the 2008 TAC Cup Team of the Year after a brilliant season as captain of the Northern Knights.
Zaharakis was among his side's best in the 38-point win over the Dockers with 21 possessions and 10 marks.
The 19-year-old broke his way into Essendon's senior side after collecting 33 possessions and booting seven goals with Bendigo in a VFL practice match the week before.
Essendon coach Matthew Knights said he was impressed with every aspect of Zaharakis' game against Fremantle.
“From a whole package point of view we were pleased because not only did he win the ball but his disposal and decision making was really good for a young player. He also chased, tackled and harassed – he put as much energy into this part of his game as any other part," Knights said.
“As a match committee we loved that he brings a real energy and enthusiasm to his game and that is infectious on the team. David allows himself to make good decisions during a game because he has good composure and balance with the ball in his hands.”
Zaharakis, who was selected with pick 23 in last year's draft, captained Vic Metro to the AFL Under 18 Championship title last year and also earned All-Australian honours.
The promising youngster capped off a stellar junior career with selection in the 2008 TAC Cup Team of the Year after a brilliant season as captain of the Northern Knights.
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