St Kilda young gun Jack Steven has been rewarded with the round 10 Rising Star nomination for his 27-possession performance in the Saints thumping of Fremantle on Saturday afternoon.
Among the 21-year-old’s 27 possessions were 8 contested possessions, 4 marks, 4 clearances and a goal.
Steven, who was drafted in the 2007 National Draft at pick #42, has struggled to hold his spot in the Saints side in previous years but has progressed rapidly in 2011 playing in 7 games, including the past 6 games straight.
Steven made his debut for the Saints against the Hawks in round 19 of 2009. He didn’t play another game until round 6 the following season. In round 7 of 2010 he was apart of the side that suffered a humiliating loss to Carlton which once again saw the youngster out of the side.
Steven ended up playing a total of 8 games in 2010, but played no part in the Saints finals campaign.
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon said that Steven has responded to the challenge that the club has set him.
“After showing some good signs last season, Jack has been a great addition to the St Kilda side this year and has provided great energy and run over the last few games,” Lyon said.
“He is a versatile player who has proved his ability as a small forward, and over recent weeks, has also stepped up as an attacking midfield player.
“We challenged Jack, asking him to step up, take on greater responsibility, and to his credit he has responded well relishing the new role.
“In his fourth year at the club we are pleased that Jack has been able to seize the opportunity at senior level.
“At just 21 years of age and with only 16 games of experience, there is a lot to like about Jack, and we see him as an important player who can grow into a dangerous running midfielder.”
Do you think Jack Steven will hold his spot in the St Kilda side for the rest of the season? Comment below!
