Giant of a rising star

Connor Idun was this week's AFL Rising Star nominee. (AFL Photos)

Former Drysdale Hawks footballer Connor Idun is the AFL Rising Star nominee for round 23.

The GWS Giants defender has played 21 games this season and was nominated for the award after collecting 17 disposals and taking five marks in his side’s 14-point win over Carlton on Saturday night at Marvel Stadium.

The 21-year-old, who completed his VCE at Christian College, has been one of the Giants most consistent players this season averaging more than 12 disposals, five marks and laying two tackles from his 21 games. On Saturday night he had three rebound 50s and five contested possessions.

Born in England, Idun was selected by the GIANTS with pick 61 in the 2018 NAB AFL Draft from the Geelong Falcons in the NAB League as a developing key defender who can play tall or small.

Idun didn’t start playing footy until he was 12 years old after moving from London to Sydney before his family shifted to Victoria. He played two seasons of NAB League for the Geelong Falcons primarily in defence before being selected to represent Victoria Country at the 2018 NAB AFL U18 Championships.

Idun played his junior footy for Drysdale.