Hartley receives AFL Sydney Rising Star Nomination

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Sydney University player Michael Hartley has received the Rising Star Nomination for Round 16.

Hartley made a welcome return to the line-up against UNSWES and was extremely impressive in just his fourth senior game. A tall defender, Hartley showed his versatility against the Bulldogs, becoming one of the match winners after moving to Centre Half Forward in the second half. Clean marking, quick leads and outstanding presentation across the forward half set up a much more effective attacking structure that eventually overwhelmed a valiant Bulldogs outfit that had stuck with the Students for a large portion of the game. His work rate resulted in the opportunity to kick two important goals when the game was in the balance.

Hartley’s effectiveness in defence was also a pleasure to watch through the first half and it is obvious to everyone of the improvement he has shown after a terrific National Carnival for the U18 RAMS and an opportunity to turn out for Collingwood in the VFL the previous weekend. Excellent closing speed and a long reach helped Uni dominate the aerial battle in their defensive 50 and his poise and adept foot skills either in traffic or setting up a rebound move was influential.

Michael is a product of the Penrith Swans junior club, playing a few U18 games also for the Penrith Rams. In now his third season with Sydney University, the Collingwood scholarship recipient and State U18 representative is turning many heads with his performances.

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