Willem Duursma: Rising Star nomination for West Coast young gun gives Eagles 22-year first

Willem Duursma has been recognised for a stunning start to his AFL career with this week’s Rising Star nod – and he’s helped West Coast achieve a feat not seen since before he was born.

Duursma earned the Round 3 Rising Star nomination off the back of his brilliant showing against Port Adelaide. Last year’s top draft pick had four clearances among his 20 disposals, and hit the scoreboard with 1.3 as well as dishing off a goal assist to help spearhead the club’s comeback victory.

The nod coupled with Jobe Shanahan’s selection last week marked just the second time in Eagles history that they’ve had Rising Star nominees in successive AFL rounds.

The other occurrence was in late 2004, when the club’s top two draft picks from the previous spring in Sam Butler and Beau Waters were recognised in rounds 17 and 18.

Tyrell Dewar and Clay Hall received nominations across successive Eagles games last year, but they were separated by the club’s AFL bye.

“It feels unreal, especially now having two Eagles players nominated back-to-back,” Duursma said.

“It really goes to show the character and development we are building as a team.”

The wingman singled out veteran teammate Elliot Yeo for helping him develop across his first months at the top level.

“Elliot Yeo and his belief in me and the young boys has been huge for us,” Duursma said.

“He’s been sharing his elite footy knowledge, both on and off the field, which has been so handy and really helps with our confidence.”

Duursma is now considered by bookmakers to be the biggest threat to Carlton’s Jagga Smith for the Rising Star prize. Smith is a $1.90 favourite following his Round 1 nomination, with Duursma at $4.50.