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Rockingham teen Aaron Naughton finishes fourth in Western Bulldogs’ best and fairest awards, wins best first year player

Staff ReporterSound Telegraph
Bulldogs head coach Luke Beveridge with Aaron Naughton during the 2017 AFL Draft.
Camera IconBulldogs head coach Luke Beveridge with Aaron Naughton during the 2017 AFL Draft. Credit: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Rockingham teenager Aaron Naughton produced a shock fourth-placed best-and-fairest finish at the Western Bulldogs’ Charles Sutton Medal awards last night.

Despite completing just 18 games due to an ankle injury, the former Kolbe Catholic College student, who was drafted at No.9 from Peel last year, impressed in his rookie season against superstars Lance Franklin, Joe Daniher and Jeremy Cameron in the early rounds when senior teammates were injured.

Aaron Naughton received the John Brown Memorial Award at the City of Rockingham Sports Star Awards in 2017. He went on to be drafted by the Western Bulldogs. He is pictured with Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels.
Camera IconAaron Naughton received the John Brown Memorial Award at the City of Rockingham Sports Star Awards in 2017. He went on to be drafted by the Western Bulldogs. He is pictured with Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels. Credit: City of Rockingham

Naughton led the Dogs in contested marks (27) and booted two goals against North Melbourne when swung forward in round 14, and averaged 12 disposals and four marks in his first season.

The 19-year-old also received the Chris Grant Best First Year player award, capping off an impressive year where he received a NAB Rising Star Nomination in round 23 after collecting 18 disposals, nine marks, 12 intercept possessions and four rebound 50s in a three point loss to Richmond.

Naughton penned a contract extension to stay at the Bulldogs until 2020 in June.

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