AFTER 16 AFLW games, Tyla Hanks has finally been recognised by the powers above, receiving a nomination for the NAB Rising Star Award.

And you will struggle to find a more deserving winner.

Hanks’ honours come after a career-high 19-disposal outing in Round 2, helping her side defeat the Tigers at Casey Fields.

But numbers don’t necessarily do the 20-year-old’s impact justice.

In her third season at the level, Hanks is quickly becoming one of the most influential players both at the club and in the league, impressing with her poise, class and football smarts.

Since being recruited with pick No.6 in the 2018 Women’s Draft, Hanks was destined to star on the big stage, and her development has been consistent.

Playing predominantly up forward in her debut season, she averaged eight disposals and booted three goals, before drifting through the midfield in 2020.

And while Hanks came fifth in Melbourne’s best and fairest last year, it was clear she could still take her game to another level.

With the added responsibility of a leadership role and a permanent midfield position, Hanks has thrived in the early stages of 2021, looking fitter than ever and hungry for the ball.

She may stand at just 157cm, but her presence is large, and her future in the game is as bright as any other.