Elijah Hollands

Personal information
Full name	Elijah Hollands
Date of birth	25 April 2002 (age 22)
Place of birth	Adelaide, South Australia
Original team(s)	Murray Bushrangers (NAB League) Wodonga (O & M Football League)
Draft	No. 7, 2020 national draft
Height	189 cm (6 ft 2 in)
Weight	86 kg (190 lb)
Position(s)	Midfielder
Club information
Current club	Carlton
Number	20
Playing career
Years	Club	Games (Goals)
2021–2023	Gold Coast	14 (8)
2024–	Carlton	5 (6)
Total		19 (14)

Elijah Hollands, a rising AFL star, hails from Adelaide and was inspired by his father, a former football professional. Overcoming challenges like injury, he joined the Gold Coast Suns, impressing in his debut against the Brisbane Lions. Recently traded to Carlton, he aims to excel alongside his brother, showcasing agility, precision, and goal-scoring prowess. Hollands’ dedication and impact reflect his journey from Adelaide to AFL success, inspiring young players with his determination. His remarkable tale of perseverance and talent continues to shape his legacy in the league.

Early Life and Background

Elijah Hollands’ early life in Adelaide, South Australia, was shaped by his father’s influence as a professional Australian rules footballer. Born in Adelaide, Elijah spent his formative years observing his father, Ben, excel in the sport. This exposure ignited Elijah’s passion for Australian rules football from a young age.

The family later moved to Wodonga, where Elijah began honing his skills by participating in Auskick with the Wodonga Bulldogs. Despite facing challenges like an ACL injury, Elijah’s determination led him to be drafted by the Gold Coast Suns.

His journey from Adelaide to Wodonga and eventually to professional football demonstrates the strong foundation laid by his father’s sporting legacy.

Career Overview

After being selected by the Gold Coast Suns, Elijah Hollands began a promising AFL career that has already demonstrated his talent and potential. Making his AFL debut against the Brisbane Lions in 2022, Hollands showcased his skills by kicking two goals in his first game. His impressive performance earned him a Rising Star Nomination in round 21 of the season.

Following his successful stint with the Suns, Hollands was traded to Carlton after the 2023 season. Joining his younger brother Ollie at Carlton, Hollands is expected to make significant contributions to the team’s performance. This shift marks a new chapter in his AFL career, where he aims to continue his impressive form and further establish himself as a rising star in the league.

Statistics

Stat	2024 Season Average	Career Average	Standout Season Performance	Standout Career Performance	Career Total
Disposals	17.8	16.4	25 against West Coast Eagles (Round 23)	25 against West Coast Eagles (Round 23, 2024)	590
Kicks	11.4	10.4	18 against West Coast Eagles (Round 23)	18 against West Coast Eagles (Round 23, 2024)	374
Goals	0.8	0.5	3 against Essendon (Round 13)	3 against Essendon (Round 13, 2024)	25
Marks	4.5	4.1	8 against Geelong Cats (Round 15)	9 against Hawthorn (Round 15, 2022)	149
Tackles	2.6	2.6	5 against North Melbourne (Round 19)	5 against North Melbourne (Round 19, 2024)	92
Handballs	6.4	6	9 against Brisbane Lions (Finals Week 1)	10 against GWS Giants (Finals Week 1, 2023)	216
Fantasy Points	74.6	68.5	107 against North Melbourne (Round 3)	118 against Hawthorn (Round 3, 2022)	2467

Playing Style and Skills

In evaluating his on-field performance, a distinct blend of agility and precision characterizes Elijah Hollands’ playing style and skills.

Hollands possesses remarkable speed and nimbleness, allowing him to evade opponents with ease and create scoring opportunities. His ball-handling skills are exceptional, showcasing precise footwork and clean ball control.

Hollands is also known for his accurate kicking ability, whether delivering precise passes to teammates or converting goals from various angles on the field. Additionally, his strong marking and contested ball-winning capabilities make him a versatile player who can impact the game in multiple ways.

Legacy and Impact

Elijah Hollands has left a lasting legacy and made a significant impact on the AFL landscape through his remarkable journey from Adelaide to Wodonga, culminating in his promising career with both Gold Coast Suns and Carlton. His legacy and impact are evident in various ways: