Melbourne’s Judd McVee has received the AFL Rising Star nomination for Round 18. 

This nomination comes after Melbourne’s 1-point win over Brisbane on Friday night. 

McVee managed a handy 14 disposals on Friday night, taking on the formidable Brisbane forward line. 

Originally from Western Australia, the defender has made a sizeable impact over his short career.  

Drafted in 2021, he spent the 2022 season in the VFL playing for Casey and was a key part of the Demons’ VFL Premiership win. 

The nomination comes in recognition not only for his performance in Round 18, but for his consistency across the season.  

Playing in every AFL match this season, he’s averaged 13 disposals across each of his 17 games.  

The 185cm defender has made a name for himself in contests, already showing himself to be a fierce opponent that can compete at AFL level. 

His highest impact game came in Round 3 against the Sydney Swans, where he garnered 18 disposals to his name.  

Backline coach Troy Chaplin praised McVee for his improvement. 

“He’s had really good start to the year – we’re loving his composure and his ability to win contests. He very rarely loses his feet or gets beaten. 

“For a young kid to be performing like that is exciting for him and playing on some dangerous forwards. We’re really pleased with how he’s developing.” 

In April, McVee signed a two-year extension with the club, meaning that Dees fans will see more of the exciting young defender until 2025.