Whether it is Jack Macrae’s dash down the wing, Brett Goodes’ tackling pressure or Nathan Hrovat’s pinpoint kicks inside 50, the Western Bulldogs 2013 debutants have left an impression.

Five first year Bulldogs were blooded this season, putting their name in the ring for the coveted Chris Grant Best First Year Player to be awarded at the 2013 Charles Sutton Medal.

While many would expect it to be a two horse race between Macrae and Goodes, all three of Jake Stringer, Nathan Hrovat and Lachie Hunter have staked their claim throughout the season and remain outside chances.

Macrae’s ability to find time and space in his debut season has been influential in a year where the Bulldogs were calling out for some outside run.

Surpassing 20 disposals in seven of his 13 games, the classy midfielder has shown he can contribute both inside and outside the contest and will be a valuable commodity in the Dogs lineup for years to come.

Jostling for the Best First Year Player award is likely to be mature aged rookie Brett Goodes, who has made the most of his opportunities this season providing a bigger body in the Dogs defensive half.

Ranked 12^th in the competition for average rebound 50s – and leading the Bulldogs in that statistical category – the 29-year-old’s extensive VFL experience held him in good stead until a broken arm ended his season.

Bulldogs first round draftee Stringer has provided glimpses of how dangerous and ruthless the 19-year-old can be, with his goal nous and tackling pressure in the forward half the most noticeable of his traits.

Kicking 12 goals from 10 games, the forward has an immense appetite for the contest and does not like to be beaten.

An extra pre-season under Stringer’s belt will ensure he can sustain his vigour and attack for the entire year.

Hrovat came to the Club with strong ball winning abilities and real leadership potential but after a year in the system he has shown Bulldogs members and fans that he can provide so much more.

His vision and precision kicks held him in good stead when exposed to senior football, while his foray into the forward line saw him combine with Luke Dahlhaus to create havoc.

The final Bulldog vying for the Chris Grant Best First Year award is Lachie Hunter, who after seven games so far is proving to be the most natural footballer of the group.

Playing predominantly in the forward half, Hunter’s vision and skills have been pivotal in a number of strong passages of play, contributing to a number of Bulldogs goals.

Josh Prudden is the only Bulldog yet to make his debut of the 2012 draft crop, however the midfielder put in a number of highly promising performances at VFL senior and development league level.

Injury affected his season, but the 18-year-old is resolute – already looking to season 2014 to make his mark.