2009 season
It was a groundhog year for the injury-plagued utility, only managing seven VFL matches this season. After recovering from his third shoulder reconstruction, the 22-year-old made a return through the VFL in Round Six, impressing coaches with a role down back, before a sickening collision in the final minutes saw him miss two weeks with a fractured cheekbone. Two consecutive appearances in the VFL were followed by another stint on the sidelines (seven weeks) with a hip flexor injury.
Rusling, who was drafted as a forward, could play a role down in defence next season after spending the majority of his time there in the VFL this year.
2009 Highlights
Round Six v Coburg Tigers: In his first match of the year, Rusling looked at home in defence, picking up 15 possessions and four marks. In limited game time the young Magpie proved why the coaching staff have kept their faith in him. His tenacity for the disputed ball combined with his quality of usage only adds further excitement to the potential of this prospective star.
Gavin Brown (VFL head coach) says: He was unfortunately injured at times in between the seven games he played. The pleasing thing was he got through the season and played the last few games. He will have his first full preseason since he has been here. His shoulders are fine. He predominantly played down back this year and I would think he will start there again next year and see how he progresses.
2009 VFL statistics
| G | K | H | D | M |
| 7 | 3.6 | 5.3 | 8.9 | 2.0 |
