In the storied halls of Australian Rules Football, few accolades shine brighter than the AFL’s Rising Star nomination. And this week, the spotlight is firmly on Melbourne’s Caleb Windsor, who has just been named the Round Eight Rising Star nominee. As a seasoned scribe with over two decades covering the AFL, it’s clear to me that Windsor’s performance against the previously undefeated Geelong was nothing short of sensational.

The young Demon lit up the hallowed turf of the MCG in front of 54,112 passionate fans, producing a season-high 18 disposals at a scintillating 83 percent efficiency. He also delivered nine score involvements, eight intercepts, and six tackles—statistical evidence of his relentless energy and game-changing ability.

With the margin a nail-biting four points in the final quarter, Windsor stepped up when it mattered most, coolly slotting a crucial set-shot goal to extend Melbourne’s lead. It was a defining moment that underscored his maturity beyond his years, guiding the Demons to an eight-point victory and handing Geelong its first loss of the season.

Standing at 185cm, Windsor’s pace and precision through the midfield have quickly made him a fan favorite. His journey to AFL stardom began with junior footy at Lysterfield and Knox before joining the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League. The Demons recognized his potential early, selecting him with pick seven in the 2023 National Draft.

Windsor made his debut in the Opening Round against the Sydney Swans and has since become a fixture in the team, featuring in every game for fourth-placed Melbourne this season. He’s averaging 14.4 disposals, 2.6 tackles, and 2.2 inside 50s per game—a remarkable contribution from the Rising Star nominee.

If his Round Eight performance is any indication, Caleb Windsor is set to soar in the AFL, and Melbourne fans can rest assured they’ve got a gem on their hands.

2024 AFL Rising Star nominees:

  • OR: Matt Roberts (Sydney Swans)
  • R1: Ollie Dempsey (Geelong Cats)
  • R2: George Wardlaw (North Melbourne)
  • R3: Harvey Gallagher (Western Bulldogs)
  • R4: Sam Darcy (Western Bulldogs)
  • R5: Harley Reid (West Coast Eagles)
  • R6: Darcy Wilson (St Kilda)
  • R7: Jake Rogers (Gold Coast SUNS)
  • R8: Caleb Windsor (Melbourne)