He made his debut with the VFL Frankston Dolphins in 2002, aged 17. He was briefly looked at as a late round draft pick by that year's AFL Runner-Up, Collingwood. He was also considered as a pick for Sydney Swans, West Coast Eagles and Geelong Cats. After being overlooked he signed with the Frankston Dolphins and became the following season's youngest player in the competition, narrowly qualifying to play by four days. In 2005, Fielder returned home to Melbourne, sighting family as a key factor.