Hawthorn’s Nick Watson has claimed the 2026 Virgin Australia AFL Mark of the Year with his incredible ‘horizontal’ grab in Round 24.
The 21-year-old becomes just the second Hawk to win the award, following Peter Knights' victories in 1972, 1975 and 1977.Â
Watson took out the Alex Jesaulenko Medal ahead of Fremantle’s Shai Bolton and Melbourne’s Kysaiah Pickett at Monday night’s Brownlow Medal Count.
The small forward took to the skies against the West Coast Eagles at Optus Stadium, reeling in a courageous mark in wet conditions.
As the winner of the 2026 Virgin Australia AFL Mark of the Year, Watson receives $50,000 and two million Velocity Points thanks to Virgin Australia – enough Points for two people to redeem return Business Class Reward Seats to over 600 destinations around the world*.
Watson’s mark was voted the overall winner by the AFL All Australian Panel.
Fans who voted for their favourite mark also went into the running to win $5,000 thanks to Virgin Australia.
Relive Wizard's mark below!
The Wizard reached into his bag of tricks! 🪄
— AFL (@AFL) August 27, 2026
Nick Watson is the round 24 @VirginAustralia Mark of the Year nominee. pic.twitter.com/bEJ5FP5EFx
* Reward Seats are subject to availability. Taxes, fees, and carrier charges may be applicable and may vary. Velocity membership and redemption terms and conditions apply.
