Local product Callan Ward has been rewarded for an impressive season with the round 18 nomination for the AFL Rising Star award.

Ward, 19, played his junior footy with Spotswood in the Bulldogs' western suburbs heartland and made his AFL debut last year while completing Year 12 at Williamstown High School.

He was a key figure in the Bulldogs' 31-point victory over Fremantle at Etihad Stadium on Saturday, gathering 22 disposals, five marks and booting two goals.

"We have been extremely pleased with Callan's development this season," said Bulldogs coach Rodney Eade.

"He is now playing a key role in the midfield, and this nomination is a testament to his persistence and work rate."

Ward was selected with pick 19 in the 2007 national draft.

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