Jack Silvagni named AFL Rising Star for Round 13, Carlton’s fourth nomination in 2017

CARLTON has made Rising Star history, as Jack Silvagni delivered the Blues their fourth nomination of the year after a starring role in the win over Gold Coast.

CARLTON have made Rising Star history, as Jack Silvagni delivered the Blues their fourth nomination of the year amid a glowing endorsement of the club’s bright future from the famous father-son.

The resurgent Blues became the first club in AFL history to score four nominations in eight weeks with Silvagni joining Caleb Marchbank (Round 6), Sam Petrevski-Seton (Round 7) and David Cuningham (Round 12).

They were all drafted by Silvagni’s father, Blues list manager Stephen Silvagni and the first time the Blues have earned four nominations in one season.

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Jack Silvagni, 19, shed light on Bolton’s magic touch and said a review of the Round 1 loss to Richmond would help the Blues snap a four-year losing streak in Sunday’s blockbuster rematch at the MCG.

The well-spoken goalkicker slotted two last-quarter goals as the Blues overpowered Gold Coast on Saturday night to back up last week’s famous one-point win against Greater Western Sydney.

“It’s very exciting, this is a proud moment for myself, and obviously the club,” Silvagni told the Herald Sun.

Jack Silvagni marks against Gold Coast during Round 13.

“That’s four of us now for this year, and Weiters (No.1 pick Jacob Weitering) last year. It’s really exciting times.

“We’re obviously heading in the right direction under Bolts’ leadership, and Murph and Simmo as well.

“To see the young boys have an impact — Samo (Petresvki-Seton) in his first year, Cuners after six games and Marchy after coming across from another club (GWS) — is really positive.”

Only three clubs have won more than four Rising Star nominations in one season since the award’s inception in 1993 — Essendon (five in its 1993 premiership year), Fremantle (five in 1996) and the Giants (eight in 2012).

Silvagni’s teammates Charlie Curnow, Tom Williamson and Zac Fisher are also all eligible as well as 199cm forward Harry McKay, who is closing in on becoming Bolton’s 10th debutant.

Silvagni continued a seven-decade dynasty by taking the No.1 guernsey this season, worn in 312 games by father Stephen and in 227 games by grandfather Sergio.

“It means a lot having family ties to the club. It’s very special, it’s been a dream of mine since I can remember,” Silvagni said.

“To be able to pull on the jumper, let alone get this sort of recognition, is super special.

The Silvagni connection, (from left) Stephen, Sergio and Jack. Picture: David Caird

“But it’s not so much about the number, it’s more so about the monogram on the front and the club with such a proud history that we’re representing.”

Silvagni said players warmed to Bolton because of his caring nature and teaching ability.

“He’s happy to have a chat about life and football as well. He’s really approachable, and that makes coming to work every day very easy,” Silvagni said.

“He takes time out of his day to come into academy meetings with the first and second-year boys and if need be the door is always open for a chat.”

Silvagni lives at home “wrestling” younger brothers Ben and Tom, who are also chances to join the Blues as father-sons.