Dyson Heppell from the Essendon Football Club is the Round 1 NAB AFL Rising Star nominee.

In his first AFL match Dyson, 18, gathered 20 possessions and took seven marks. He was very composed playing across half-back, continuing the good form he displayed during the NAB Cup. The left-footer’s opponents included Adam Cooney and Daniel Giansiracusa.

 
Essendon coach James Hird said it was pleasing to see Dyson enjoying his football.

“Dyson is an exceptionally talented footballer who has made a really smooth transition into AFL football.  He’s been consistent throughout our NAB Cup campaign and also last week against the Bulldogs, demonstrating his flexibility as a player and also his capacity to perform under pressure,” Hird said.

“He is a player of outstanding character who we believe has the potential to grow into a long-term player for the Essendon Football Club.”

Dyson was Essendon’s first selection (selection eight overall) in the 2010 NAB AFL Draft.  He represented Vic Country in the 2010 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships and was selected at an All-Australian and Vic Country’s MVP.

At the 2010 NAB AFL Draft Combine, Dyson topped in the handball awareness test and the former basketballer was impressive in the beep test and vertical jump tests.

Recruited from the Leongatha Football Club, Dyson played for the Gippsland Power and won the 2010 Morrish Medal – the TAC Cup’s best and fairest.