Subiaco product Charlie Thomas has earned West Coast’s third consecutive NAB AFLW Rising Star nomination after a career-best performance in round seven against Richmond.

In a poised defensive display, Thomas ended up with 23 disposals and seven rebound 50s, helping limit production from Tigers’ attackers including in-form forward Emelia Yassir.

Her 20 kicks and 633 metres gained were recognised with seven coaches' votes in the AFLCA AFLW Champion Player of the Year Award.

Thomas’ nomination follows promising ruck Sarah Lakay’s recognition in round four, with first-year forward Ella Roberts receiving the gong last week.

The 19-year-old was West Coast’s number one pick in the 2021 AFLW draft and played every game in season six of the competition.

After being thrown around in multiple positions early in her AFLW career, Thomas found her stride as a defender and has remained at half-back all season.

Senior coach Michael Prior advocated for her nomination following the Tigers loss and was impressed with her development as a back over the past two seasons. 

“She has to be in the conversation, I thought she was outstanding tonight,” Prior said.

“Not just tonight as well, the last few weeks she’s been really good.

“She grew another leg tonight and took her career a little bit further, she played with poise and polish.

“She’s really grown into the halfback role for us this year, so she deserves anything that comes her way.”

Thomas’s ability to adapt to fit into her team’s system is a big reason for her recent success, earning praise from her coaches for her persistence to learn her role.

“We threw her around a little bit last year, playing her back and on the wing,” Prior said.

“We’ve just settled her as a back this year and now working with Rohan McHugh, our backs coach, she’s come along way so all credit to those two.”

The NAB AFLW Rising Star winner will be announced at the 2022 W Awards.