PENSHURST export Josh Rentsch has etched his name in NAB League history, becoming the second Greater Western Victoria Rebel to take out a Morrish Medal in the past five seasons.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Rentsch, an imposing key forward who honed his craft in the Mininera and District league, joined Brisbane Lions superstar Hugh McCluggage as just the second Rebel in history to clinch the honour.
Rentsch polled 12 votes to tie with Calder Cannons' Flynn Lakey in an online presentation ceremony on Thursday night.
He's a fine leader and has shown a great physical on-field presence.
- Damian Ross
Rebels regional talent lead Damian Ross said Rentsch's win in the under-19 award was exciting for everyone involved in the program.
"He's a fine leader and has shown a great physical on-field presence."
Rentsch played in nine of the Rebels' 10 games in a COVID-19 shortened season, kicking 14 goals as a ruckman/forward.
A five-goal haul against Eastern Ranges in round five was among his highlights.
Rentsch also represented Vic Country in 2021.
South Warrnambool's Marcus Herbert also featured prominently in the Morrish Medal, finishing third on 10 votes.
IN OTHER NEWS:
The Rebels won seven games under coach David Loader to finish second on the ladder.
COVID-19 restrictions meant the season was called off before finals.
Rentsch will be among a group of Rebels to attend an AFL combine testing day at Bendigo on Friday as part of the lead up to the national draft. Camperdown's Hamish Sinnott and Portland's Jamieson Ballantyne will also attend.
Rentsch, who attends Ballarat Grammar School, has also been named on interchange in the NAB League boys' team of the year.
Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.
Nick Ansell
Nick Ansell is a sports journalist at the Warrnambool Standard.
Nick Ansell is a sports journalist at the Warrnambool Standard.
