Kepler Bradley has been named the NAB AFL Rising Star for Round 1. Nineteen-year-old Bradley was a shining light for the Bombers on Saturday night, despite the 46-point loss to Melbourne. In only his sixth game for the club, Bradley spent most of his night at centre half back but he was also asked to spend some time in the ruck.
Bradley saw plenty of the ball during the match, he had 16 possessions at half time to lead the Bombers’ stats sheet at the main break. He finished with 25 touches comprising 15 kicks, 10 handballs and 10 marks.
Most impressively, not only did Bradley stop goals he was also creative across half back and never gave up even when the result was beyond doubt.
""Kepler thoroughly deserves it, his performance on the weekend was very good for a young player and everyone is really buoyed around the club that one of our young players has really come on,"" recruiting manager Adrian Dodoro said.
""He’s probably been our best player throughout the whole practice match series and he has a great future ahead of him.
""Last year Kepler found his feet, he played very well in the VFL and played some good footy in the seniors. He has had an exceptional pre-season and he really believes in himself. There is no doubt we have a 200 game plus player here for Essendon.""
Bradley was drafted to Essendon from West Perth as at the 2003 National AFL draft 1st round selection, at number six overall.
Watch the 1993 Grand Final on Bomber.tv this week.
