Skilful Fremantle defender Sarah Verrier has secured a NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination for her round four performance against Collingwood at Victoria Park last Thursday.

It’s another feather in the cap of the exciting young defender, who has impressed in the Fremantle backline with her elite skills and intercept marking attributes.

Verrier has amassed 15 games so far at the elite level, and has averaged 10 disposals, 3.8 marks, two tackles and 1.2 inside 50s per game so far this season.

Against Collingwood, Verrier collected 12 disposals (including nine kicks), while having three marks and two clearances for the match.

Verrier is also the first player to have been added to Fremantle’s list who has played football uninterrupted from NAB AFL Auskick right through to the elite level.

The 19-year-old said she was playing with an increased confidence in her second season at Fremantle.

“It’s pretty surreal, it doesn’t feel real just yet to be honest,” Verrier said.

“I think my skills and my game sense coming through Auskick and playing all the way through has really helped.

“I’ve definitely worked hard on my intercept and contested marking in our craft sessions at training, and I’m hoping to improve even more on that as well.”

Verrier credits two of Freo’s more experienced players for taking her under their wing.

“Gabby O’Sullivan is always someone who takes the young players on, and she really helped me in the forward line last year,” Verrier said.

“Then this season it’s been Laura Pugh who has really helped me in the backline and helped me feel a lot more confident.”

Verrier has been nominated alongside Carlton’s Keeley Sherar as the two NAB AFLW Rising Star nominees for round four.

All AFLW players born in 2001, 2002 or 2003 and who have not previously been nominated as a Rising Star qualify for consideration for the award.

The winner of the NAB AFLW Rising Star award will be announced at the 2022 W Awards later in the year.