Football Federation Australia (FFA) and NAB, together with the Newcastle Jets, are proud to announce Joe Champness as the December nominee for the Hyundai A-League, NAB Young Footballer of the Year 2017/18 Award.

This is Champness’ first nomination for the NAB Young Footballer of the Year Award.

Champness, 20, joins Melbourne City FC attacker Bruce Kamau (October), as well as Central Coast Mariners creative Daniel De Silva (November) as a nominee for the prestigious Award.

During December 2017, Champness contributed significantly to the Jets’ strong surge up the Hyundai A-League standings, starting in all five of the team’s fixtures as Ernie Merrick’s men defeated Adelaide United and Western Sydney Wanderers at home, as well as Perth Glory away.

Champness has appeared in every Newcastle Jets Hyundai A-League match this season – scoring two goals.

The Hyundai A-League NAB Young Footballer of the Year 2017/18 will be announced at the Dolan Warren Awards Night.

Jets’ boss, Ernie Merrick said the young forward’s nomination was well-deserved.

“Joey has been outstanding to start the season,” said Merrick.

“He forced his way into the side based on his strong pre-season form and he hasn’t looked back, going from strength-to-strength every week.

“He’s got a knack for finding the goal and his contribution up front – for a player of his age – has been first class.

“Joey has all the attributes to go a long way in the game and his work ethic is second-to-none – he’s been a fantastic find for the club.”

NAB’s Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Knott, said he is proud to see the NAB Young Footballer of the Year Award continue to identify and reward outstanding achievement of talented young footballers.

“We congratulate Joe on his nomination and look forward to watching his development and growth on the football field in the years to come,” said Knott.

Champness’ nominated junior club, Moreton Bay United FC will receive a NAB Club Recognition Award, which includes a range of equipment along with $2000.

The overall winner of the Hyundai A-League, NAB Young Footballer of the Year 2017/18 Award will receive a $10,000 personal investment portfolio, along with a NAB Private Client Manager to assist with a range of banking products and services.

Each month representatives from the FFA Technical Department vote on a 3-2-1 basis for the most outstanding U23 players in the Hyundai A-League during that period.