Mattaes Phillipou’s electric beginning to life as a Saint has tonight been recognised with a nomination for the 2023 AFL Rising Star.
The Saints’ first-rounder pieced together 13 disposals, five score involvements and – much like Mitch Owens in his nomination game – an unreal Mark of the Year contender during yesterday’s win over North Melbourne.
It comes off the back of an impressive body of work over the past few months, which has seen Phillipou feature in every game this season to help his side to a 6-2 record.
Forming part of the Saints’ improvised forward line following injuries to its key stocks, the 18-year-old has also run through the midfield at stages, even lining up for several centre bounces alongside the likes of Jack Steele, Brad Crouch and Seb Ross.
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06:34
‘It’s incredibly exciting’: Phillipou on Opening Round blockbuster, returning from injury + more
Emerging Saint Mattaes Phillipou speaks to media at the MCG ahead of Opening Round.
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01:23
Phillipou's 'mindset shift' helping unlock his best
Mattaes Phillipou speaks to Nine News as he prepares for his third season in red, white and black.
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01:09
RD18 | Mattaes backs up strong midfield momentum
Watch the best bits of Mattaes Phillipou from Round 18 against the Crows.
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00:51
RD18 | Phillipou’s wet-weather stunner defies logic
Mattaes Phillipou roars after delivering a sensational goal from the boundary in super tough conditions.
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01:46
RD17 | Phillipou potent in senior return over Swans
Watch the best moments from Mattaes Phillipou's career-best outing against Sydney in Pride Game.
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04:15
'It's a privilege': Mattaes Phillipou reflects on his journey with the Saints
Young star Mattaes Phillipou chats friends, family and football following a two-year contract extention with the red, white and black.
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01:57
Mattaes' monster major or Jack's out-of-the-box snap? Vote for your Goal of the Year nominee!
Mattaes Phillipou and Jack Higgins have been nominated for Goal of the Year! Vote now on your favourite goals from Round 2 of the Toyota AFL Premiership Season.
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RD2 | Monster Mattaes kick trickles through big sticks
The Saints can do no wrong as Mattaes Phillipou unleashes a massive effort that somehow bounces through.
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07:21
Walk with...: Phillipou, Caminiti reflect on debut seasons
First-year Saints and close mates Mattaes Phillipou and Anthony Caminiti look back on a big 2023.
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Phillipou has quickly endeared himself to the Saints’ faithful in his limited appearances at senior level, with his father, Sam, among the most passionate in his corner.
Sam, who played three games for Footscray in 1995, was the one to deliver Phillipou the news of this week’s Rising Star nomination, dialling in via FaceTime at Melbourne Airport while en-route back to Adelaide.
The No. 25 is the second Saint to be nominated for the AFL Rising Star this season following Mitch Owens (Round 4).
Anthony Caminiti remains the only Saint to be tried at senior level eligible for the award in 2023.
