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Dion Prestia

Last updated on June 11, 2024 at 10:45 am

Posted on June 6, 2024 at 11:26 am

Personal information

Nickname(s)

The Human Meatball, Meatball

Date of birth

12 October 1992 (age 31)

Original team(s)

Calder Cannons (TAC Cup)

Greenvale (EDFL)

Draft

No. 9, 2010 AFL National draft: Gold Coast

Debut

Round 2, 2011, Gold Coast vs. Carlton, at The Gabba

Height

175 cm (5 ft 9 in)

Weight

82 kg (181 lb)

Position(s)

Midfielder

Club information

Current club

Richmond

Number

3

Playing career

Years

Club

Games (Goals)


2011–2016

Gold Coast

95 (30)


2017–

Richmond

122 (41)


Total


217 (71)


Career highlights

AFL

  • 3× AFL premiership player: 2017, 2019, 2020

  • Yiooken Award: 2022

  • 2× 22under22 team: 2013, 2014

Richmond

  • Jack Dyer Medal: 2019

  • Maurie Fleming Medal (3rd RFC B&F): 2022

  • Richmond Life Member: 2017

Gold Coast

  • Gold Coast vice captain: 2014–2016

  • Inaugural Gold Coast AFL team: 2011

Junior

  • 2× TAC Cup premiership player: 2009, 2010

  • Calder Cannons Team of the First 20 Years


Star Midfielder Dion Prestia’s AFL Journey

Embark on the dynamic AFL journey of star midfielder Dion Prestia. Raised in Melbourne, he honed his skills at various clubs, culminating in his standout performances with the Gold Coast Suns. Known for agility and precise passes, Prestia’s stats speak volumes to his impact on the field. His off-field leadership and community involvement further solidify his legacy. Explore how this tenacious player’s career unfolds beyond the field.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in Melbourne’s inner-northern suburbs, Dion Prestia began his football journey at the West Lalor Junior Football Club in the Diamond Valley Football League. From there, he moved on to the Greenvale Football Club in the Essendon District Football League before making his mark with the Calder Cannons in the TAC Cup in 2009.

Prestia showcased his skills through notable performances in premiership matches and representative selections, laying the foundation for his future AFL career. His early experiences in these junior leagues helped shape his passion for the game and set the stage for the success he’d later achieve in the Australian Football League.

Career Overview

Dion Prestia’s AFL career saw him rise to prominence as a key player for Gold Coast Suns from 2011 to 2016. He was drafted by Gold Coast in the 2010 AFL National Draft and quickly made an impact, playing 17 matches in his debut season.

Prestia’s breakout year came in 2013 when he delivered career-best performances and finished as the runner-up in the club’s best and fairest award. In 2014, he was elected as the vice-captain and maintained consistent form with multiple games of over 20 disposals. Prestia’s time at Gold Coast was marked by his strong performances and leadership on the field before injuries interrupted his progress and influenced his decision to seek a trade to a Melbourne-based club.

Playing Style and Skills

His playing style and skills showcase a blend of agility, precision, and tactical awareness on the field. Dion Prestia is known for his ability to maneuver through traffic, deliver pinpoint passes to teammates, and read the game with astute awareness. Below is a table highlighting some of his key playing attributes:

Attribute

Description

Example

Agility

Nimble footwork

Dodging opponents

Precision

Accurate disposal

Pinpoint kicks

Tactical Awareness

Strategic positioning

Creating scoring opportunities

Statistics

Prestia’s statistical performance in the AFL reflects his impact on the field through key metrics and contributions to his team. Known for his consistency, Prestia has maintained solid numbers throughout his career. With an average of 24.9 disposals per game, he showcases his ability to find the ba

Stats

Total

Average (Per Game)

Goals

71

-

Kicks

2653

12.2

Disposals

5136

23.7

Marks

666

3.1

ll and influence play.


Legacy and Impact

With a lasting influence on the AFL landscape, Dion Prestia’s legacy and impact resonate beyond his on-field performances. Prestia’s leadership qualities and work ethic have left an indelible mark on his teammates and fans alike. His ability to perform consistently at a high level has set a standard for excellence within the league.

By showcasing determination and resilience in the face of adversity, Prestia has inspired many aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Off the field, his involvement in community initiatives and charitable endeavors has further solidified his reputation as a role model and positive influence in the sporting world.

Dion Prestia’s legacy will continue to shape the future of AFL and leave a lasting impact on generations to come.


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