Promising GIANTS youngster Jack Ough has been recognised for his stellar season with selection in the 2026 Smithy’s VFL Team of the Year.
Originally announced in last week’s 48-player VFL Team of the Year squad, Ough was further recognised for his brilliant 2026 campaign with selection in the final 23-man team revealed at the VFL and VFLW Awards in Melbourne on Monday night.
Ough earnt his place in the side after dominating at VFL level, particularly across the first half of the season prior to making his AFL debut.
Playing in 13 VFL games across the season, the talented teenager averaged 31.8 disposals, 14 contested possessions, and 5.5 tackles per game.
Ough’s clean hands and his ability to win the ball in traffic and bring teammates into the game was a highlight of the impressive youngster’s 2026 campaign.
The 19-year-old’s brilliant VFL form ultimately saw him rewarded with an AFL debut in round 17, with Ough going on to feature in five AFL games to close out the year.
Ough, who was selected with pick 36 in the 2024 AFL Draft, will be looking to further cement himself in Adam Kingsley’s side in 2027.
GIANTS VFL Head Coach Robbie Chancellor said Ough’s selection in the 2026 VFL Team of the year was thoroughly deserved.
“To be recognised in the VFL Team of the Year is a fantastic achievement for Jack and a really fitting reward for the season he put together,” Chancellor said.
“Jack’s consistency at VFL level was outstanding. He was one of our most important players throughout the year and thoroughly deserves this recognition.
“Jack took another really significant step in his development this year. His VFL form was excellent and it ultimately gave him the platform to earn his AFL opportunity which was really exciting to see.
“To see him translate that VFL form into an AFL debut was a great reward, and then to finish the season having played five AFL games was a terrific experience for him.
“I’d also like to acknowledge Harvey Hooper who was named in the VFL Team of the Year squad. Harvey was such a fantastic addition to our side this year and we couldn't be happier with what he brought to our program both on and off the field.”
