Lachie Whitfield wins GWS Giants best-and-fairest after move to defence
LACHIE Whitfield’s move from the wing to defence paid dividends after the No.1 pick capped an excellent season with his first best-and-fairest award.
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LACHIE Whitfield has capped a stellar season taking out his first Kevin Sheedy Medal as the GWS Giants Club Champion.
Sheedy was on hand to make the presentation to the 24-year-old, who claimed the honour with 175 votes, nine ahead of co-captains Callan Ward (164) and Phil Davis
(156) with vice-captain Stephen Coniglio (154) and defender Nick Haynes (151) rounding out the top five.
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“Lachie’s had a simply outstanding season,” Giants coach Leon Cameron said.
“We challenged him this season, almost out of necessity, with his determination and professionalism shining through as he attacked his move to halfback with enthusiasm.
“We’ve always known he’s an incredibly hard working and skilful player but what he’s been able to achieve this season is nothing short of remarkable.”
The No.1 draft pick made a seamless transition from the wing to defence at the start of the season and picked up his first All-Australian selection last month.
Despite never having played in the backline, Whitfield excelled averaging 26.8 disposals, 6.7 marks, 3.7 rebounds and 3.2 tackles per game.
He also produced 3.7 inside 50s per game and kicked six goals.
Ward’s second placing was the third time he has been runner up in the award in his seven seasons at the Giants.
He has finished outside the top three only twice having won the medal in 2012 and finished third in 2015.
Davis was the early leader in the count ahead of Coniglio and second year star Tim Taranto.
Whitfield made his move in the middle part of the year to share the lead with Ward come the end of round14 and was never headed after that.
“Our leaders Callan Ward and Phil Davis (Co-captains) and Stephen Coniglio (Vice Captain) deserve a pat on the back,” Cameron said.
“They led us brilliantly during a challenging season and exemplified the hunger and determination we need to take this club where we want to go. Nick Haynes capped off a great year with his first top-five finish.”
Jeremy Cameron won the Giants leading goalkicker for the seventh consecutive season with 46 goals.
The other award winners were Zac Langdon (Rising Star), Adam Tomlinson (Community Award), Tim Taranto (Defensive Award), Lachie Whitfield (Members Choice), Harry Himmelberg (Mark of the year-Round 22), Josh Kelly (Goal of the year-Round 12), Kieren Briggs (Academy player of the year) and Jake Stein (NEAFL development).
TOP FIVE GIANTS: Lachie Whitfield (175 votes), Callan Ward (164), Phil Davis (156), Stephen Coniglio (154), Nick Haynes (151).