After being selected a pick 3 in the National Draft it was no surprise that Callum Mills took the football world by storm during 2016.

The 19-year old from the QBE Sydney Swans Academy continued to shine as the season went on being recognised as the most outstanding young player at the Rising Star awards.

Mills averaged 19 disposals and five marks a game across 22 matches during the season, only missing a few late in the season due to a hamstring injury.

Playing across half back for the first time in his career, the New South Wales local looked right at home alongside an experienced defensive group.

Mills showed his full array of skills throughout the season with his aerial ability and courage standing out for such a young player.

It was not only the ability for Mills to win his own football but the way he used it once in possession that further impressed the football world and ended up earning him the 2016 AFL Rising Star award.

Click here to get the 2016 Rising Star Lithograph to celebrate Mills' achievements.

In his own words
“It has been an exciting year but unfortunately we weren’t able to get the job done in the Grand Final which was disappointing. I have loved every minute of being here. To play games is fun every week and then to be recognised as the best young player is really humbling and something that I will look back on in a couple of years.” Callum Mills on SwansTV

Stats
Games: 22
Kicks: 231
Handballs: 177
Disposals: 408
Marks: 105
Tackles: 50

Through the lens

Mills become well known for his hard at it approach.


Mills celebrates his first goal in AFL football against Geelong.

Mills was crowned the 2016 Rising Star award.