CARLTON wingman Ollie Hollands has been named the AFL Rising Star nominee for Round 21, following his standout performance in Sunday’s win against St Kilda at Marvel Stadium.  

In his 14th AFL appearance, the 18-year-old had an impressive 20 disposals, four marks and 316 metres gained. Reflective of his constant pressure and run he also laid a career-high six tackles, with 89 per cent time on ground.  

Hollands was selected from the Murray Bushrangers with pick No.11 in the 2022 AFL Draft, playing his junior football at the Wodonga Bulldogs. 

An elite runner, Hollands has proven an ability to play on the wing while also showing a real appetite for the contest, as showcased with 10 of his 20 touches against the Saints being contested. 

Since making his debut in Round 1 against Richmond, Hollands has averaged 15.4 disposals, 3.3 marks and 304.6 metres gained per game.  

Earlier this year, Hollands also re-signed with the Club for a further two years, ensuring the boyhood Blue would continue to grow in front of the Carlton faithful until at least the end of 2026. 

Carlton AFL Senior Coach Michael Voss said Hollands has really made an impact since arriving at the Club. 

“Ever since stepping foot at IKON Park we have been so impressed with Ollie. His remarkable running capacity and true athletic ability have laid the groundwork for a great footballer,” Voss said. 

“His talent is clear but his incredible work ethic and a strong drive to constantly improve and learn is what has earned him a spot in the senior side, you couldn’t ask any more of that from a first-year player.

“Ollie is a quality person who understands what it means to be a good teammate on and off the field. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for him at the Blues.”  

Hollands, a Blues supporter growing up, has ties to Carlton with his great-grandfather Martin Cross, playing 36 games for Carlton in the early 1960s.