He’s touted as ‘The Prospect’ among the Saints’ playing group.
And Rowan Marshall is on the cusp of living up to the hype after just two seasons of senior football.
The 22-year-old finished the year with 12 games under his belt, many of which highlighted his versatility to play as either a ruckman or key position forward.
Marshall’s promise was ultimately rewarded, with the former rookie elevated to St Kilda’s senior list at the conclusion of Season 2018.
But despite boasting an imposing 201cm frame and a large leap at the footy, the North Ballarat recruit has nevertheless fought tirelessly to assert himself in the St Kilda side.
Taken at pick No. 10 in the 2017 rookie draft, Marshall’s hardworking attitude and strong focus on getting his body to peak condition saw him spend time in the senior side this season.
Marshall was given his first opportunity for the year against Adelaide, in which he featured as St Kilda’s only ruckman and ended his evening with 18 hit-outs, 14 disposals, six marks and four tackles against the far more experienced Sam Jacobs.
While his subsequent appearances before the bye were less frequent, his outing against West Coast in Round 11 highlighted his emergence as a key player, with 22 disposals to his name against the eventual premiers.
Although omitted in favour of smaller players, Marshall returned to great effect in Round 17 against Carlton, being among one of the best on field for his two-goal bag, 16 disposals and 23 hit-outs.
Marshall’s efforts throughout the season were commended by Assistant Coach, Ben McGlynn, who was impressed with the progress the young Saint had made.
“I think Rowan’s got a lot of potential to be a strong key forward for us and second ruck, or number one ruck,” McGlynn said.
“He’s definitely come a long way this year [and] definitely grew in terms of his presence up forward, his marking ability and ability to go into the ruck as added support.”
Whenever out of the senior side, Marshall was just as prolific for Sandringham, with his five games for the season resulting in five majors, 65 hit-outs and an impressive 35 marks.
Marshall’s marking skills and long leads have served as one of his most prominent traits for the Saints, with a season-high nine marks against North Melbourne one of his most notable performances to date.
While his goals haven’t come as readily in the red, white and black, his boisterous celebrations have remained a highlight among teammates.
It’s something which McGlynn thinks the youngster will need to address in the off-season, alongside his size and ability to remain mobile with the extra weight.
“The summer for him is about putting size on. He’s definitely got the athleticism [and] his running ability is good, but he needs to be able to carry that and still run the same and move the same way,” McGlynn said.
“It’s just about strength for him to be able to dominate the contest and then follow up at ground level, which is one of his strengths.”
An infectious personality both on and off the field, Marshall can expect to find himself both injecting life into and playing key roles for St Kilda in 2019, especially given Tom Hickey’s departure to the Eagles.
Hard work has paid off for the big man, whose journey through the rookie draft and eventual climb into St Kilda’s senior list has been built upon a great deal of resilience and dedication.
“Him and Josh Battle have worked really hard, they’re always doing extra,” McGlynn said.
“He’s enjoying his footy and that’s reward for effort.”
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