Every season, one young gun takes the AFL by storm — and in 2025, the race for the Rising Star Award is as competitive as ever. With exciting rookies already making an impact and second-year players taking big steps forward, this futures market is loaded with betting value.
If you’re keen to back the next Nick Daicos or Sam Walsh, this guide breaks down the top contenders, betting tips, and where to find the best AFL Rising Star odds in 2025.
What Is the AFL Rising Star?
The AFL Rising Star Award is given annually to the most outstanding young player in the league. To be eligible, a player must:
- Be under 21 on January 1 of the season
- Have played 10 or fewer AFL games before the current season
- Not have been suspended during the year
Each round, one nominee is chosen. At season’s end, the overall winner is voted on by a panel of experts.
2025 Rising Star Betting Odds – Top Contenders
Note: Odds are indicative and vary between bookmakers. Always check live odds after logging in.
⭐ Noah Sardis (West Coast Eagles) – Favourite
Explosive off half-back, Sardis has shown elite foot skills and maturity beyond his age. With big disposal numbers early in the season, he’s the frontrunner.
⭐ Jed Walter (Gold Coast Suns) – Value Pick
A powerful key forward who already looks comfortable in senior footy. If he kicks bags consistently, expect his odds to shorten fast.
⭐ Zane Duursma (North Melbourne) – Big Riser
Smooth, classy, and dangerous in front of goal. If North gets a few wins and Duursma performs, he’s a smokey to watch.
⭐ Jhye Clark (Geelong Cats) – Bounce-Back Candidate
Injury curtailed his debut year, but he’s fit now and playing inside midfield minutes. A strong second half of the season could surge him into contention.
AFL Rising Star Betting Tips
✅ 1. Track Weekly Nominees
Each round’s nominee gives you a live snapshot of who’s in the mix. Late-season form often plays a huge role.
✅ 2. Follow Game Time and Role
Midfielders dominate this award due to consistent stat lines. Half-backs and small forwards need standout moments or elite disposal efficiency.
✅ 3. Look at Media Buzz
The Rising Star narrative is shaped by commentators, pundits, and AFL media — players with highlight plays and consistent mentions tend to rise in betting markets.
✅ 4. Get in Early
Bookies adjust markets weekly. The earlier you place your Rising Star bet, the more value you’ll likely find — especially with breakout players in Rounds 1–5.
Where to Bet on AFL Rising Star in 2025
All top Aussie bookies offer Rising Star odds under “Futures” or “Season Awards” markets. Here are the best platforms for value and usability:
- Sportsbet – Updated odds weekly, clean futures layout, AFL specials
- Ladbrokes – Strong value early in the season, good player-specific promos
- TAB – Established AFL futures markets and retail outlet access
- Bet365 – Live market tracking, consistent odds, great for early punts
- BlueBet – Aussie-owned with niche AFL futures coverage and specials
All listed sites are licensed in Australia and offer AFL betting via app, mobile, and desktop.
AFL Rising Star vs Brownlow Medal Markets
Rising Star is less volatile than Brownlow betting — there’s no umpire voting or week-to-week mystery. Instead, media coverage and statistics shape the market. That means educated punters can often find better long-shot value early in the season.
Legal & Responsible Betting Info
All AFL Rising Star bets must be placed through licensed Australian bookmakers. Punters must be:
- 18 years or older
- ID verified
- Betting within Australian law
Responsible gambling tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and access to BetStop are available on all platforms.
Final Word: Back Tomorrow’s Stars Today
The AFL Rising Star market is one of the most exciting futures bets of the season — a chance to back emerging talent before they become household names. Whether you favour high-disposal mids or flashy forwards, there’s value across the board in 2025.
Track form, watch the weekly nominees, and get in before the odds shorten — and you could be cheering your Rising Star come season’s end.
Want to Compare AFL Betting Sites for Futures Markets?
We break down which Aussie bookies offer the best odds, fastest updates, and most AFL specials — including Rising Star, Brownlow, and Coleman.
👉 Visit Top Betting Australia — your expert guide to betting futures, AFL odds, and top-ranked sportsbooks in 2025.