Tim Taranto pips Jeremy Cameron to take out GWS Giants best and fairest
AFL grand final day was a miserable day for GWS, but last night it had a silver lining for one young Giant who came from behind to claim his first Kevin Sheedy Medal.
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Tim Taranto topped off his outstanding season for the Giants last night with a last-gasp leap to claim his first Kevin Sheedy Medal.
In the race to be crowned club champion, the 21-year-old had trailed Jeremy Cameron by four votes heading into the grand final.
But Taranto’s contribution in the defeat to Richmond saw him poll the second highest number of votes from the club’s coaches – enough to leapfrog Cameron.
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Coleman Medal-winner Cameron finished two votes adrift on 220 with Jacob Hopper third on 218. Nick Haynes (206) and Zac Williams (203) rounded out the top five.
Taranto has stepped up to take more responsibility in 2019 with the likes of Callan Ward and Stephen Coniglio missing large chunks of the season.
An ever-present for the Giants, Taranto, who signed a two-year contract extension in July, was ranked second in the AFL for tackles and fourth for disposals and kicks.
Giants coach Leon Cameron hailed Taranto’s growth as a leader.
“This is a wonderful effort by Tim and a much-deserved reward for an outstanding season,” Cameron said.
“His commitment and dedication on the training track and desire to improve himself is almost second to none and he’s been an important part of our football club since he walked in the doors three years ago.
“Tim was thrown a huge challenge this year - alongside Jacob Hopper – to virtually lead the midfield for much of the season and neither of them disappointed.
“To see a player in just his third year take his game to such a level is exciting to watch as a coach and we’re looking forward to his continued development over the coming years.
“I’d also like to congratulate Jeremy on an outstanding season as well as Jacob on what he’s achieved this year alongside Tim.
“It’s great to see Nick back up his top-five finish last year with another magnificent season and to see Zac bounce back after a terrible injury to have such a strong year as well.”
The night also saw Jeremy Cameron inducted as the club’s second playing life member after reaching the 150-game milestone earlier this year while tributes were made to retirees Brett Deledio and Dawson Simpson.
Chairman Tony Shepherd told those gathered at Sydney’s Hyatt Regency that the club had every reason to feel positive ahead of the 2020 campaign.
“Having won games in each of our four consecutive finals campaigns, enjoying strong corporate support and with a passionate supporter base and a hungry playing group, we are a powerful club with plenty to look forward to in the years to come,” he said.
Brent Daniels claimed the rising star award while Nick Haynes took out the members and fans’ MVP.