The versatile mid-sized defender’s emergence was a huge positive for West Coast this year, and Rotham fittingly claimed the Emerging Talent Award at the John Worsfold Medal presentation. The 22-year-old was made to earn his position by the likes of retiring stalwart Will Schofield, and Rotham nailed down a spot for eight-straight matches from round 11 until the final round of the home and away campaign. He battled a heel injury before missing the elimination final, however the West Perth product will take plenty away from building on his four appearances in 2019 with 10 more matches under his belt this season. Capable of playing on big men and zippier forwards alike, the future appears bright in an evolving backline.
Standout performance: A Giant step forward
Round 13 was the final home and away game at Optus Stadium for the Eagles against Greater Western Sydney and Rotham enjoyed the last hurrah with 16 disposals in the grinding 12-point victory. Putting his aerial ability and clever body positioning to full use, Rotham took a career-best five intercept marks – amongst his game-high 11 grabs - to frustrate the Giants’ attacking forays.
Season averages:
Disposals – 10.7
Pressure Acts – 7.1
Marks – 5.2
One Percenters – 4.5
Rebound 50s – 2.9
2020 AFL statistical rankings:
6th: Kick to handball ratio
