Midfielder Tim Taranto has become the first GIANTS player to be nominated for the NAB Rising Star Award in 2017.

Taranto was recognised for the strong start to his career after picking up 21 possessions and laying five tackles in the GIANTS’ three point win against Collingwood in round eight. 

After being selected with pick two in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft, Taranto played every game in the JLT Community Series and has played seven of the first eight matches of the Premiership season.

Taranto was told the news in front of his teammates on Monday.

“I had a bit of a smile on my face, it was pretty cool,” Taranto said.

“They all cheered and clapped, it was a really great feeling.

“It was another close game for us, really high intensity and I just played my role, and thankfully we got the win.” 

The 19-year-old debuted in round one against Adelaide in front of 43,993 people at the Adelaide Oval and has since displayed maturity beyond his years on the big stage.

Taranto’s performance during Saturday’s tight win over the Magpies followed his 20 disposal, seven tackle display in the GIANTS’ two point, Friday Night win over the Bulldogs in round six.

“They were pretty similar games, high intensity and highly contested,” Taranto said.

“I really enjoy playing in games like that.

“It’s a new experience each week, another chance to improve and get the most out of myself at a high level.” 

Taranto is the 16^th GIANT to be nominated for the NAB Rising Star since 2012.

He is also the third successive round eight nomination to come from the club, following Jacob Hopper in 2016 and Cameron McCarthy in 2015.