Round 9 - Graham Polak
The 2003 Rising Star runner-up, Polak enjoyed an outstanding season in just his second year of AFL football. The 193cm key defender made his AFL debut in round one against West Coast last year and looked set to play every game in 2002. But his season was rocked with a shoulder injury which limited him to six games. However, he has become a key member of Fremantle’s line-up this season and was rewarded with his nomination in round nine when he collected 17 disposals and 10 marks against Melbourne. Polak was widely regarded as the best key position player in the 2001 National. He finished on 26 Rising Star votes, seven behind the winner, Sam Mitchell.