Our Season Summary looks back at how each GIANTS player fared during the 2015 AFL season.
Name: Dylan Shiel
Number: 5
2015 Games: 14 AFL
AFL Fantasy Average: 92
Awards: Nil
Background: Dylan Shiel joined the GIANTS as a 17-year-old access selection in 2011.
Best Game: AFL Round 4 v Gold Coast - 39 touches, 3 marks, 5 tackles and 1 goal.
Summary: An early favourite for the Brownlow Medal, Dylan Shiel exploded out the blocks this season. Consistently performing in the midfield, the 22-year-old established himself as one of the elite players of the competition. Unfortunately a knee injury in Round 15 v St Kilda cut his season short and added to the GIANTS’ injury woes. Shiel averaged 26 touches in 2016, a marked improvement on the 23 disposals he averaged last season. The midfielder benefited from the introduction of new recruit Ryan Griffen who would often attract the opposition tag, allowing Shiel to play a more natural midfield role. Shiel also signed a contract extension that will see him remain a GIANT until at least the end of 2017.
Pat On The Back: Shiel took that next step in his development from being a good player to being a great player. He is often seen in the gym putting in extras and is widely respected as one of the most professional players at the club.
What They Said: “Dylan is one of the most professional players I’ve come across in my time in the AFL. Like many of his teammates, Dylan can see the direction the club is heading and I know our members and supporters will be thrilled Dylan has re-committed.” Leon Cameron
Look Ahead: Shiel gave an exciting glimpse of his ability this season, assuming he can remain injury free he should be able to replicate his form of early 2015.