Sydney Swans young gun Oliver Florent credits his rapid rise to the belief his coaches have instilled in him.

The nimble midfielder claimed the 2018 Rising Star award at the recent Club Champion Dinner to ice a stellar season in red and white.

Florent’s 2018 campaign saw him make a seamless transition from the forward line to the midfield, with the 20-year-old slotting in on a wing and gathering ample possession, using the ball without blemish and showing lightning-quick speed.

The Victorian said midfield coaches Brett Kirk and Dean Cox played enormous roles in helping him find his feet in his new role.

“For me the focus was to believe in myself and get the belief in my head that I can match it with anyone,” Florent told SwansTV at the Club Champion Dinner.

“Kirky and Coxy really pushed it through my head to believe that you can do it.

“I’ve got a lot of confidence at the moment and I’ll bring that into next year and hopefully have an even better year.”

Florent’s belief was in full swing as he sealed a win at the death over the Dogs in Round 4.

The youngster mopped up the footy on the left wing, tucked the Sherrin under his right arm, put on the afterburners to leave ruckman Tim English in his wake and threaded a goal to clinch a seven-point win for the Swans.

While the Swans led the Dogs by just one point with about 30 seconds left on the clock, Florent says he doesn’t regret taking the game on.

“Horse probably would have liked me to hold it up and take time off the clock but I wouldn’t take anything back,” Florent chuckled.

“I was happy I kicked the goal, it was a great feeling, it was awesome.”

Florent joined an esteemed list of names at the Club Champion Dinner, placing himself alongside the likes of Rising Star winners Nick Malceski (2006) and Kieren Jack (2008) and, as the honour was originally named, Best First-year Players Andrew Dunkley (1992) and Adam Goodes (1999).

Florent rose over the top of a host of star Sydney youngsters to collect the Rising Star award, including 2018 debutants Ben Ronke and Tom McCartin.

Florent said he received the award with immense pride.

“It’s very humbling to be recognised as a Rising Star,” Florent said.

“I didn’t expect this and we have such great young players at the Club and I’m really lucky to be taking home the award.”