Will Hayes
After five years of hard work at VFL level, Will Hayes was drafted and earned an AFL debut.
Hayes had two stints in the senior team, playing nine matches and impressing with his hard-running work-rate.
The 24-year-old midfielder-forward slotted in seamlessly, averaging more than 15 disposals per game in his maiden AFL season.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 9
Goals: 4
Disposals (av): 15.6
Marks (av): 4
Tackles (av): 3.3
Best game
Hayes was sensational in the Bulldogs’ huge win against Essendon in round 21.
He collected a career-best 22 disposals and generated 384 metres gained, to go with two majors and five inside-50s.
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Rhylee West
A late-season debut came for draftee Rhylee West, following strong VFL form.
The 19-year-old son of a gun played three AFL matches, showcasing his competitive nature and skill both as a midfielder and pressure forward in a year where he was runner-up in the VFL’s JJ Liston Trophy.
West signed a two-year extension in August, tying him to the Bulldogs until at least the end of 2022.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 3
Goals: 2
Disposals (av): 12.7
Marks (av): 2.3
Tackles (av): 1
Best game
West showed signs of what he’s capable of on debut against Fremantle in round 19.
The exciting prospect collected 14 disposals under the roof at Marvel Stadium in a big win, casually slotting his maiden AFL goal with a left-foot snap.
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Lachie Young
Rookie draftee Lachie Young didn’t have to wait long for a taste of AFL action.
The 20-year-old defender got the call-up in round five, playing six matches at AFL level and highlighting his aerial ability, before continuing to develop for Footscray in the second half of the year.
Young signed a new one-year deal for 2020 in March.
By the numbers
AFL Games: 6
Spoils: 26
Disposals (av): 11
Marks (av): 4
Tackles (av): 1.7
Best game
In a strong team defensive performance in round seven’s win against Richmond, Young strutted his stuff on the Saturday night stage.
He had 18 disposals and eight marks, plus four spoils, to impact in a 47-point win.
