Versatile Melbourne defender Colin Garland has been rewarded for his important role in the Demons' one-point victory over Brisbane with the round 14 nomination for the AFL Rising Star Award.

Garland, 20, has played 11 matches this season, after just two games in his debut season last year.

He has played on some of the best forwards in the competition this year, including Lance Franklin, Nick Riewoldt, Alan Didak and Lions spearhead Daniel Bradshaw.

"Colin has played a number of roles this season, playing on both talls and smalls in the backline, after initially beginning the year in the forward line," said Melbourne coach Dean Bailey.

"Col has shown great improvement over the year and has gained invaluable experience against some of the best forwards in the competition."

Garland played his junior football with North Hobart before being selected by Melbourne at No.46 in the 2006 national draft.

He is Melbourne's second Rising Star nominee this year, following Austin Wonaeamirri.

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