Jack Macrae
Guernsey number: 11
2013 games: 13
Career games: 13
2013 goals: 3
Career goals: 3
 

Season in short:

Taken with pick six overall in the 2012 National Draft, Macrae bolted up the order thanks to a stellar TAC Cup season and national under 18 carnival campaign. His evasiveness and decision-making, honed while playing with Carey Grammar, Oakleigh Chargers and Vic Metro, were on full display throughout his 13 AFL games in 2013. Macrae's 26 disposals, five marks and four tackles against the Gold Coast Suns in round eight earned the 19 year-old a NAB Rising Star nomination. The youngster also won the Bulldogs’ Best First Year Player award at season’s end.

Stat that mattered:

Macrae found a purple patch through the middle of the season that undoubtedly showed the teenager's true potential at senior level. The first round draftee averaged almost 23 possessions, four marks, three tackles, three inside 50s, two rebound 50s and three bounces per game.

What they said:

“He’s put on eight or nine kilos since he’s come to the Club and that has all been lean body mass it hasn’t been any fat. So he’s really taken to the weights program and his body has responded, which is great for him – a lot of guys have to spend years in the gym to get the gains that he’s made.”

- Development Coach Ashley Hansen after Macrae was recognised with the NAB Rising Star Nomination in round eight

Pre-season focus:

Adding bulk will be a high priority for the 19-year-old, so he can better compete with his more mature midfield opponents in years to come. Extra attention to developing Macrae’s non preferred side will also assist the young pup, allowing him to continue exposing his opponents with his sidestep and sharp evasive movements, despite the added attention he is no doubt going to receive in his second year.

In the news:

Contest and carry helps Dogs turn tide

Stringer and Macrae extend deals to 2016

Macca optimistic about pups