Western Bulldogs midfielder Marcus Bontempelli has been named captain of the AFL Players’ Association’s 22 Under 22 for the second year running.

The 21-year-old averaged 23 disposals and four marks per contest in 2017 and kicked 20 goals across 22 games.  He also lead the club in contested possessions (11.8pg), clearances (90), contested marks (21), tackles (138) and finished second in metres gained (8,474).

Bontempelli has been named in the fan voted team in each of his four season and his eligible again in 2018.  He said being named captain was a ‘great privilege’.

“Being selected in itself is an honour and then to be lucky enough to be selected as captain with the quality of players is just a massive honour,” he said.

“The fact that it’s a group of young players in a team that represents ... the growth of our game is the privileges that you love to be a part of.”

This year’s 22Under22 side features 13 first-timers and three All-Australians (Josh Kelly, Zach Merrett and Matt Crouch).

2017 is 22Under22’s fifth year since its inception and is the only recognised AFL award voted by the fans.

The initial squad of 40 players was selected by the AFL Players’ Association’s Board, with the final 22 decided entirely by the fans.

For the team and full list of award winners click here.