The Western Bulldogs today elevated rookie defender Brett Goodes to the primary list ahead of the Nominated Rookie deadline at 2pm today.

Goodes’ impressive form in the pre-season vindicated the Club’s decision to offer the 29-year-old a rookie spot, regularly featuring in the best players over the past month.

The defender looked comfortable at AFL level from his first possession in the NAB cup, and his form continued on the weekend, where he was one of the Bulldogs best players against Richmond at Visy Park.

General Manager of Football, James Fantasia said Goodes was deserving of his spot after his solid showing in the NAB Cup competition.

“Brett’s leadership skills and his application to his football has been first-class, and we are not only seeing the benefits on the field, but he is providing valuable support to his younger teammates off it,” Fantasia said.

“We are extremely proud of how much he has developed as a person throughout his time here, and as a footballer over the past few months and look forward to seeing him continue his good form this season.”

“He is truly deserving of the elevation.”