Country footy: The best players named from across regional Victoria
We’ve picked out our best players of the Victorian country footy season, now you can choose who you think was best. VOTE IN OUR POLL.
Country Footy
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Country footy was well and truly back in 2022.
Every corner of the state saw leagues up and running without too many interruptions for the first time in three years.
Here’s a look at the top 150 performers from across the state.
VOTE IN OUR POLL AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STORY
Mark Anderson (Wangaratta, Ovens and Murray)
The best small defender in the O & M who has produced another consistent year.
Abraham Ankers (Wangaratta, Ovens and Murray)
Important cog in the Wangaratta midfield with the team first into the grand final to be contested on the Sunday following the AFL grand final.
Shaun Atley (Rochester, Goulburn Valley)
Played just 12 games throughout the season but made his presence felt when he was there. Named in the best 10 times.
Angus Baker (Wodonga, Ovens and Murray)
Delivered everything Wodonga had hoped when recruited from ACT this year. A player with NEAFL experience.
Sam Baker (Barwon Heads, Bellarine)
Finished the season with individual success and team success. He came equal-second in the league medal while the Seagulls claimed a remarkable premiership.
Mitch Banner (Hepburn, Central Highlands)
The former Port Adelaide man was the leading goalkicker in the competition, kicking 81 goals in 17 games. He averaged more than four goals a game.
Harry Benson (St Mary’s, Geelong)
The St Mary’s midfielder had an almost perfect two months to start the season, polling 22 out of a possible 24 votes through the first eight rounds of the year. Benson went on to win his second consecutive Mathieson Medal with 25 votes, finishing the season averaging 29.8 disposals and 5.3 tackles per game. He missed six weeks in the middle of the season because of a devastating facial injury that left him consuming food through a straw.
Brad Bernacki (Gisborne, Bendigo)
Would have probably won the best and fairest award in Bendigo if he didn’t play for Essendon in the VFL. Finished tied for second, polling 15 votes in eight games in the season. The midfielder has recently helped Gisborne make the grand final.
Brett Bewley (Darley, Ballarat)
The former Fremantle wingman was named as the best player in the competition after a big year for his new club. The midfielder averaged almost a goal a game for the Devils and was among the best for the club in 11 of 17 games. Injury late in the season robbed him a chance of playing finals for the club.
Jack Blood (St Mary’s, Geelong)
The inspirational Saints skipper will lead his team into a consecutive grand final, after his side lifted the premiership cup in 2019. Blood has been one of the most consistent St Mary’s players this season, stepping up in the absence of Harry Benson and averaging 26.4 disposals. Only once did Blood go under 20 disposals for a game (19 in round 5), and he only exceeded 30 touches twice.
Matthew Boag (Newtown & Chilwell, Geelong)
On his day, Matt Boag is one of the league’s most damaging players. Eagles coach Damien McMahon said earlier this year he struggled to decide where Boag was best used, with the star capable in both the midfield and the forward line. Boag averaged 27.6 disposals per game in 2022, including a 46-disposal effort in round 4, as well as slotting seven goals in round 9.
Lachlan Bond (Newtown & Chilwell, Geelong)
The Eagles key forward started the season on fire, slotting 10 goals in the first two weeks of the season. A suspension and a bout of Covid halted his good form, but Bond still ended the season with 37 goals in 15 games and earned himself four games in Geelong’s VFL side, where he kicked six goals. He missed out on team of the year honours, but he was consistently one of the Eagles’ best players when he was on the field.
Andrew Boseley (South Barwon, Geelong)
Boseley was the leading goal kicker in the key forward category, slotting 50 majors for the season. Only three times was Boseley kept goalless for a game, while he also had bags of eight and 10. Through 18 games played, the key forward kicked three or more majors nine times.
Joel Brett (Golden Square, Bendigo)
The leading goalkicker in the competition and was unlucky not to kick 100 goals this season. He kicked 98 goals in 21 matches and almost guided his team to a grand final.
Jackson Bright (Bell Park, Geelong)
The Bell Park skipper had one of his best seasons in a distinguished career, being named in the team of the year for the first time. Bright kicked 42 goals in 17 games. His work up the ground was impressive, pushing up to a wing and a half back flank to provide a strong marking target for his defenders.
Jayden Burke (Golden Square, Bendigo)
The leading vote getter for Golden Square this year in the Bendigo best and fairest. The forward, combined with Joel Brett, was a lethal combination in front of goal, kicking more than 150 goals. Burke kicked 55 goals in 20 games to be among the top 10 in the competition.
Daniel Burton (Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat)
The 2018 league best and fairest had another dominant year in the ruck. He was named as the best ruckman in the competition this year despite only playing 11 games.
Thomas Cameron (Fish Creek, Mid Gippsland)
Tied with Ricky Cochrane in the best and fairest for the competition, polling 19 votes for the season. The midfielder was in the best players in 11 out of the 14 games he played. Cameron was also named in the team of the year.
Scott Carey (Swifts, Horsham and District)
Now a three-time league best and fairest after taking out the Dellar Medal for season 2022. Carey gave up the Swifts coaching job at the start of the season.
Liam Carter (Melton, Ballarat)
Another dominant forward from Melton who has had a good year.
Ryan Carter (Melton, Ballarat)
The forward kicked 10 goals in the final game of the season to tie for the goalkicker of the year award in the competition. Carter has a chance to win a premiership with the club after the team made the grand final.
Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol, Ballarat)
The 2019 best and fairest winner was still at his prolific best in the middle, despite missing games in the middle of the year due to injury. His ball winning skills in the middle, during the finals series, has helped Sebastopol make back-to-back grand finals.
Mitch Chafer (Grovedale, Geelong)
The lively small forward earned his first team of the year honours after a stellar season. Chafer slotted 32 goals in 13 games, including four games of four goals or more. His ability to roam up the ground before running hard back towards goal caught a lot of defenders out of position, and his pressure when the ball was turned over in the forward line was some of the best in the league.
Ben Christopher (Mansfield, Goulburn Valley)
One of the rising stars of the competitions. Christopher has been brilliant throughout the year.
Jackson Clarke (Wangaratta, Ovens and Murray)
Beefed up an already potent Magpies midfield with a string of polished performances.
Ricky Cochrane (Boolarra, Mid Gippsland)
Was one of two players, with Thomas Cameron, who won the best and fairest in the Mid Gippsland League. He polled 19 votes and was also among the best players in half of his 16 games this season.
Liam Collins (Kangaroo Flat, Bendigo)
The midfielder has been one of the best for the Kangaroos this year. He’s featured in the best players in 15 of 17 games and led the Kangaroo Flat count in the best and fairest, polling eight votes.
Brad Congress (Bambill, Millewa)
The leading goalkicker in the Millewa League and one of the best with the boot in country Victoria this year. He kicked 142 goals in 17 matches, including a club record haul of 24 goals in one game earlier in the season.
Jacob Conlan (Albury, Ovens and Murray)
Great season for the Tigers. Regularly hit the scoreboard with his strong marking a consistent feature.
Lucas Conlan (Albury, Ovens and Murray)
Made opposition forwards work overtime for every goal kicked on him this year.
Billy Cooper (Tatura, Goulburn Valley)
In a difficult season for the Bulldogs, Cooper showed plenty of promise.
Levi Dare (Alvie, Colac and District)
Finished with the league best and fairest after a dominant season. His presence was often felt around the ground.
James Darke (Torquay, Bellarine)
Became just the second player of all time to claim a fourth league best and fairest this season, joining Josh Finch in the history books. Won by a clear six votes.
Sam Darley (Geelong Amatuer, Bellarine)
Finished second in the league best and fairest with 21 votes. The Ammos co-coach continues to prove the doubters wrong.
Luke Davis (South Barwon, Geelong)
One of the competition’s best rucks, Davis led the league for hit outs in 2022. He averaged 37.6 hit outs per game, often giving his team first use of the ball. Davis also collected 14.6 disposals and 1.8 marks per game throughout 2022, and was named as the starting ruck in the team of the year.
Mitch Day (Lara, Geelong)
Day was one of the league’s most consistent forwards, which is no easy task when he played for the two-win Lara outfit. The key forward kicked a goal in 16 of his 17 games this season on his way to 45 for the year, which was good for fourth in the league’s leading goal kicking tally. Day was named as the full forward for the GFL team of the year.
Keiran Delahunty (Minyip Murtoa, Wimmera)
Enjoyed a brilliant season to take home back-to-back league best and fairest.
Nick Dixon (North Shore, Geelong)
The North Shore co-coach had leather poisoning seemingly every weekend, such was the manner of his ability to accumulate possessions. Dixon averaged more than 36 disposals per contest in 2022, including days out of 49 touches in round 6 and 48 disposals in round 9. He had six games of 40 or more possessions, and just two under the total of 30, with his lowest tally for the season being 25 touches.
Sam Dobson (Koroit, Hampden)
Remains one of the most dominant forwards in country footy after kicking 86 goals from 18 games this season. Will contest the grand final this weekend.
Sam Donegan (St Albans, Geelong)
His team may have gone winless, but Sam Donegan’s first year in the GFL was a resounding success. The young midfielder averaged 24.3 disposals per game in 2022, getting better as the season went on, and ended the year playing in the Geelong VFL side. Donegan polled 11 votes in the Mathieson Medal but missed out on team of the year honours.
Paddy Dowling (St Mary’s, Geelong)
Dowling is as tough a match up as they come on the football field. He’s too quick and agile for key defenders, but too tall and strong for smaller match-ups, meaning he adapts his game based on his opponent with great success. His ability to push up the ground and collect 20 disposals, while also setting up goals and pushing hard back into the forward line to be a danger adds a different factor to his game than just a standard stay-at-home forward.
Jack Driver (South Barwon, Geelong)
The intercepting defender was dominant throughout the 2022 season, earning GFL team of the year honours. Driver averaged 21.1 disposals with an ability to shut down the opposition’s most dangerous defender while also collecting plenty of his own ball. His ability to pinpoint a teammate by foot led to plenty of attacking movements.
Tom Eckel (Stawell, Wimmera)
The Warriors coach caught the eye of the umpires throughout the season to finish second in the league best and fairest.
Brett Eddy (Traralgon, Gippsland)
Dead eyed forward who booted 71 goals in his first season for Traralgon.
Billy Evans (Eaglehawk, Bendigo)
One of the leading players for Eaglehawk this season. The former Brisbane Lions midfielder was among the best in 15 of his 18 games for the club this year. He finished inside the top 10 in the best and fairest for Bendigo.
Jack Exell (Violet Town, Kyabram District)
Enjoyed a standout year in his first season with the Towners going onto kick a competition high 110 goals from 16 matches. His teammate Josh Mellington kicked a remarkable 92 in one of the league’s most potent forward lines.
Ben Fennell (Drysdale, Bellarine)
Was considered to be the favourite for the league best and fairest but ended up finishing fourth. A classy addition all season to the Hawks midfield.
Luke Fisher (Minyip Murtoa, Wimmera)
Finished second in the league best and fairest after a brilliant season.
Nick Fothergill (Yarrawonga, Ovens and Murray)
Great pick up for the Pigeons with his dash on the wing a big factor in their great season.
Brayden Frost (Harcourt, Maryborough Castlemaine District)
Has been tremendous in the two seasons he’s been back with the Lions and won the league’s best and fairest. Frost has consistently appeared among Harcourt’s better players.
Nathan Gardiner (Cora Lynn, West Gippsland)
Enjoyed a fine season to take home the competition’s goalkicking award with 88 majors in 18 games. Kicked a season-high 13 against Koo Wee Rup. His side were eliminated in the semis.
Jarryd Garner (St Mary’s, Geelong)
A round 1 injury sidelined Garner for a fair chunk of the season, but it did not stop the star midfielder from dominating in the back half of the year. Garner returned in round 8 and averaged more than 30 disposals per game, as well as a goal per game. He has been one of St Mary’s most damaging players in the midfield and forward half this season.
Jackson Gash (Mulwala, Murray)
A former league best and fairest, Gash has enjoyed another strong season for the Lions with 10 appearances in the best. Finished second in the league medal this year.
Dale Gawley (Kilcunda Bass, West Gippsland)
After arriving from Montrose in the Eastern League, Gawley enjoyed a fine season with a second-place finish in the league best and fairest. Despite the Panthers winning just seven games, he showed his class.
Lachlan George (Redan, Ballarat)
Was one of the most consistent players for Redan this year as the club just missed out on finals. Was named on the bench in the Ballarat Football Netball League’s team of the year.
Sam Gibson (Cavendish, South West District)
Enjoyed a brilliant season to claim the league’s best and fairest award.
James Gow (St Joseph’s, Geelong)
The premier ball winner for St Joseph’s, Gow did his best to lead his side deep into finals. Joeys finished fifth, and fell in the first week to the eventual grand finalists in Leopold. Gow finished the year averaging 23.9 disposals, 5.7 tackles and almost a goal per game.
Brandyn Grenfell (Marong, Loddon Valley)
Set a new league record for goals in a season with more than 150 for the season. Won a premiership as Marong broke a long drought.
Wade Hancock (Wentworth, Sunraysia)
The leading goalkicker in the Sunraysia Football League with 76 goals in 17 matches. Hancock is also the coach of the club and has played in the NEAFL for Southport.
Brock Harvey (South Bendigo, Bendigo)
The third leading goalkicker for the competition this year, kicking 64 goals in 20 games. He also kicked seven goals in the clubs first final in 10 years to put the team through to a semi-final in the competition. Harvey kicked five or more goals in five games.
Jai Hayward (Omeo-Benambra, Omeo District)
Deserving winner of league best and fairest who consistently rolled out telling games in the ruck.
Jack Hazendonk (Poowong, Ellinbank and District)
Enjoyed a brilliant season to take out the league best and fairest with 30 votes for the third time. He claimed the award with three votes in the final round.
Jack Hellier (Euroa, Goulburn Valley)
The former Collingwood VFL skipper is one of the premier midfielders of the competition.
Aaron Heppell (Leongatha, Gippsland)
Another crucial cog in the Leongatha midfield who has helped the team to top spot finish. The brother of Essendon captain, Dyson.
Kaine Herbert (Kyabram, Goulburn Valley)
A powerful midfielder who is a former league best and fairest winner in the Kyabram District competition.
Ben Hicks (Mooroopna, Goulburn Valley)
One of the best performers for the Cats as a made a return to finals footy for the first time in a long time.
Ash Holland (Waaia, Picola and District)
Took out the league best and fairest after a stunning season. Holland definitely caught the eye after being just 15 games in the home-and-away season.
Hudson Holmes (Maffra, Gippsland)
His team’s most consistent player who repeatedly came up with the ball in Eagles’ back half.
Andrew Hooper (Ballarat Swans, Ballarat)
The former AFL player was the leading target up forward for the Ballarat Swans this year. He kicked 39 goals in 16 games.
Jett Hooper (Horsham Saints, Wimmera)
Took out the league’s rising star award for players under 21. A name to look out for in the future.
Nathan Horbury (South Bendigo, Bendigo)
The South Bendigo coach was tied for second in the best and fairest with Brad Bernacki. The midfielder played 19 games and was among the best for his club in almost half of them, kicking seven goals.
Tommy Horne (Castlemaine, Bendigo)
Horne has been one of the highlights in a disappointing season for Castlemaine. The gun midfielder, who returned to the club this season, was one of the best in 13 of the 15 matches he played at the club. He tied for fourth in the best and fairest in Bendigo.
Daniel Jackson (Portland, Hampden)
Became the first Portland player to win the league best and fairest, the Maskell Medal, this season. A dominant midfielder.
Matthew James (Bell Post Hill, Geelong and District)
Returned to the Panthers at the start of the season and fitted in seamlessly. A former league best and fairest.
Nicholas Jamieson (Tongala, Murray)
The Footscray VFL premiership player has been a sensation since arriving in northern Victoria capping it off a stellar two-year run with the league best and fairest. Once again played a key run in the Blues’ finals push.
Jordan Johnston (East Point, Ballarat)
The leading goalkicker for East Point this year with 51 goals. He was named in the forward line of the Team of the Year.
Matthew Johnston (East Point, Ballarat)
The East Point captain was one of the best midfielders in the competition this year. He was able to tag and beat some of the key midfielders from the opposition, while also providing a valuable role to his team.
James Keeble (Sebastopol, Ballarat)
The leading goalkicker for grand final bound Sebastopol, kicking 32 goals. Keeble kicked more than two goals in 10 games for the club.
Braedan Kight (Melton, Ballarat)
The Melton forward is in the top five of goalkickers for the competition and is the second for the club this year.
Ruory Kirkby (Echuca, Goulburn Valley)
Among the leading goalkickers in the competition this season with 81 from 19 games. Has thrived on having more responsibility in the Murray Bombers’ forward line.
Flynn Lakey (Gisborne, Bendigo)
Another dominant midfielder for Gisborne who is a hard ball winning machine. Lakey finished tied for fourth in the best and fairest, polling 14 votes during the year. In 19 matches this season he was among the best for the club in 13 matches. Lakey last year won the Morrish Medal as the best player in the NAB League.
Jed Lamb (Warragul, Gippsland)
The former AFL forward has had the impact Warragul had hoped. Kicked 70 goals in a team that missed finals.
Darcy Lang (Colac, Geelong)
The former Geelong and Carlton footballer enjoyed a dominant first full season in the GFL, and earned the most votes in the Mathieson Medal. Unfortunately for the Colac co-coach, a suspension earlier in the season ruled him out of contention for the award. Lang was dangerous both in the midfield and the forward line, averaging 26.9 disposals and more than a goal per game throughout the season. The co-coach led Colac to second place on the ladder, but the Tigers were bundled out of the finals in straight sets.
Shannen Lange (Sale, Gippsland)
Sublimely skilled midfielder who has had another great season for the Magpies.
Harry Lee (South Warrnambool, Hampden)
The defender was one of his side’s most reliable players this season which saw him earn team of the year selection.
Jack Leslie (Sale, Gippsland)
Genuine star of the competition. Super versatile who has proved he can play both key position and in the ruck.
Tyson Lever (Sunbury, Ballarat)
The key defender has helped the Lions to be one of the best defences in the competition this year. The younger brother of Melbourne player Jake Lever.
Tony Lockyer (Sebastopol, Ballarat)
The inspirational captain has been leading the Sebastopol charge towards a grand final with his work in the middle. He’s been among the best players in 11 of 17 games, kicking one goal every two games.
Tanner Lovell (Geelong West, Geelong)
The rising talent had a superb end to the season, earning three VFL games with Geelong to end the year. While at the Giants, Lovell averaged 28.8 disposals per game, as well as 5.1 marks and 3.4 inside 50s. Lovell also kicked six goals for the season and paired well in the midfield with Baxter Mensch.
Brent Macaffer (Tooradin Dalmore, West Gippsland)
Made an immediate impact for the premiers, who won the weekend’s grand final, after taking out the league best and fairest by three votes. The former AFL midfielder joined the club from Eltham.
Rhys Magin (Kyneton, Bendigo)
Finished second in the goalkicking in the competition with 75 goals in 18 games. Magin also led the voters from the club in the best and fairest and finished eighth overall. A strong season for the forward who kicked five or more goals in seven games.
Alex Marklew (Wangaratta Rovers)
Finally found the consistency needed to make an impact at O & M level.
Tom Marriott (Leongatha, Gippsland)
Champion player for the Parrots who finished undefeated and first were into the grand final.
Leigh Masters (Yarrawonga, Ovens and Murray)
General of the Yarrawonga backline who has had a big say in the club‘s rise up the ladder.
Cobi Maxted (Sandhurst, Bendigo)
The VFL player for Collingwood also had a good season for Sandhurst in Bendigo. He averaged almost four goals a game in 15 matches for the Dragons. Maxted finished as the second best player for Sandhurst in the best and fairest, polling 12 votes.
Callum McCarty (Strathfieldsaye, Bendigo)
Finished inside the top 10 in the best and fairest for Bendigo after a dominant season as an on baller for Strathfieldsaye. Despite only playing 13 matches for the year he was best in 11 of them and almost kicked a goal a game.
Jarryn McCormack (Colac, Geelong)
The tall intercepting defender enjoyed a strong season for the Tigers, earning team of the year honours. McCormack averaged 21.4 disposals per game, missing three matches through a hand injury.
Blair McCutcheon (Merrivale, Warrnambool and District)
Merrivale midfielder Blair McCutcheon has won a thrilling count for the Warrnambool and District league best and fairest. The four-time Koroit premiership player in the Hampden league polled 22 votes to win by one from joint runners-up, Nirranda’s EJ Harvey and Panmure’s Jacob Moloney.
Tom McDonagh (Mansfield, Goulburn Valley)
Made an immediate impact on the competition after crossing from Myrtleford.
Jack McHale (Echuca, Goulburn Valley)
The former Bendigo Pioneer earnt interleague selection earlier this year. Has managed to standout in a powerful Echuca line-up.
Billy McInnes (Sea Lake Nandaly Tigers, North Central)
The forward kicked the most goals this season in the competition, with 62. He kicked three or more goals in 12 games this season.
Pat McKenna (Gisborne, Bendigo)
The leading goalkicker for Gisborne this season, kicking 64 goals in 14 games. Has kicked more than five goals a game in six matches this year.
Ryan McKenzie (Warrack, Wimmera)
About as good as anyone this season with 30 goals and 15 appearances in the best from 16 games.
Tim McLennan (East Geelong, Geelong and District)
Stormed home to win the league best and fairest with 22 votes in 11 games. The big man enjoyed a standout season in maroon and gold.
Matthew McMahon (Newtown & Chilwell, Geelong)
The three-time Mathieson Medalist enjoyed another stellar season for the Eagles in 2022, despite falling short of a grand final. McMahon averaged 22.3 disposals per game, as well as more than a goal and 4.7 tackles per contest.
Tim McPherson (Koroit, Hampden)
Named at fullback in the Team of the Year after another brilliant season.
Baxter Mensch (Geelong West, Geelong)
The Giants midfielder had a strong campaign in his first GFL season, earning team of the year honours and finishing fourth in the Mathieson Medal count. Mensch averaged 33.9 disposals per game, including a four-game run of 41, 40, 40 and 38 to finish the season. The Geelong West star played primarily as an inside midfielder, but also kicked nine goals in the season.
Scott Meyer (Chiltern, Tallangatta)
Standout player of the competition. Mobile big man who has played a big role in the club‘s surge to the grand final. Won league best and fairest with 33 votes.
Anthony Miles (Albury, Ovens and Murray)
The Tigers coach was having a great season until struck down with serious injury late.
Angus Monfries (Lake Boga, Central Murray)
The former Essendon and Port Adelaide AFL player has kicked 45 goals in 14 games despite hamstring issues hampering his season.
Riley Moran (Benalla All Blacks, Ovens and King)
Won the league best and fairest by a whopping nine votes. Plays in the midfield for the best team in the league.
Callum Moore (Wangaratta, Ovens and Murray)
Reigning Morris Medallist. His versatility remains one of Wangaratta’s biggest weapons.
Jake Moorhead (Strathfieldsaye, Bendigo)
The best and fairest winner in the competition, polling 19 votes, four better than the next best. The onballer was among the best in 16 out of 18 games this season and helped his team make the grand final. In nine matches he got votes from the umpires to win the best and fairest.
Boadie Motton (Yarram, North Gippsland)
Enjoyed a brilliant second season in Yarram’s midfield to be named the league’s best and fairest.
Isaac Muller (Wodonga Raiders, Ovens and Murray)
Been a tough year for the club, but Muller has been a beacon amid the gloom.
Jack Murphy (Seymour, Goulburn Valley)
Brilliant all season for the Lions who were seriously hampered by injuries. Kicked 21 goals and was named in the best 10 times.
Sam Murray (Wangaratta Rovers, Ovens and Murray)
Brilliant season off halfback, but his move into midfield in first semi-final comeback win against Albury was his standout performance of 2022.
Curtis Murfett (Dalyston, West Gippsland)
Despite his side winning just two games for the season, Dalyston would have been happy with its recruiting of Murfett. The former St Paul’s McKinnon midfielder was named in his side’s best on 17 occasions.
Chris Nield (Mooroopna, Goulburn Valley)
In his second in Mooroopna hoops, Nield took his game to another level with 82 goals from 20 games. Played interleague earlier in the season.
Jake Owen (Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat)
The Cobras captain can play both forward and back and was named in the backline in the Ballarat team of the year.
Braden Padmore (Heathcote, Heathcote District)
Finished second in the Heathcote District league medal after an impressive first season with Mt Pleasant. Kicked 37 goals and was named in the best on nine occasions after crossing from Essendon District league club Moonee Valley. Named in the team of the year.
Lachie Patten (Bell Park, Geelong)
While the Dragons did not enjoy a successful year on the park, their vice-captain certainly enjoyed a strong campaign. Patten averaged 31.7 disposals per game for Bell Park in 2022, and polled 19 votes in just six wins for the year. He also kicked 14 goals in his 18 games this season.
Mitch Patten (Leopold, Geelong)
The crafty medium forward is a difficult match up in all areas of the ground, and his goal tally for the season proved it. Patten has slotted 63 goals in 21 games so far this season, including five games with five goals or more. His total could be much greater if his accuracy was better at stages, with two games of seven behinds kicked. Patten was named in the forward pocket of the team of the year, and won the goal kicking award this season.
Paul Pekin (Cobden, Hampden)
Named on the half forward flank in the team of the year after another brilliant season.
Nick Pezzaniti (Irymple, Sunraysia)
The leading goalkicker for the premiers with 50 goals in 15 games. He also kicked five goals in the grand final win, showing he can deliver when it counts.
Tyler Phillips (Lockington Bamawm United, Heathcote District)
Made it back-to-back league best and fairest this year winning the count by a whopping 15 votes after collecting 34 of his own. Played a key part in LBU’s first premiership since 2014.
Nathan Pollard (Lindenow South, Omeo District)
Premiership playing coach who rarely plays a bad game. Top three finish in best and fairest award he has won three times previously.
Elliott Powell (Dederang-Mt Beauty, Tallangatta)
Explosive midfielder who finished runner-up to Scott Meyer in league best and fairest.
Jacob Reed (Tumbarumba, Upper Murray)
Completed the rare trifecta of premiership player, league best and fairest winner and best on ground in the grand final.
Joe Richards (Wangaratta, Ovens and Murray)
Backed up a strong 2021 when he finished runner-up in the Morris Medal. Dominated for O & M against Goulburn Valley in May.
Jack Riding (North Ballarat, Ballarat)
In his first full season of senior footy, Riding has impressed for North Ballarat. He kicked 37 goals in 16 games. Was named in the centre in the Ballarat Football Netball League team of the year.
Nick Rodda (Darley, Ballarat)
Was tied for the leading goalkicker in the competition, kicking 56 goals. Was named in the Ballarat Football Netball League’s team of the year.
Anthony Rosato (Tatyoon, Mininera District)
Finished second in the league best and fairest after another brilliant season. Played in a grand final but was unsuccessful.
Brodie Ross (Nathalia, Murray)
Took home the league’s best and fairest in a tie with Nicholas Jamieson. Ross was named in the best 16 times this season, the most of any player in the competition.
Jason Rowan (Warrnambool, Hampden)
A strong target up forward for Warrnambool all season. Finished with 85 goals in 19 games.
Josh Saunders (South Warrnambool, Hampden)
Has now been back at the club for the past couple of seasons and has added plenty of class.
Ryan Semmel (Stanhope, Kyabram District)
A former contestant on reality TV show, The Recruit, Semmel is a seriously talented country footballer. After joining the Lions from Huntly, the powerful midfielder has quickly become one of the most dominant players in the competition.
Lachlan Sharp (Strathfieldsaye, Bendigo)
Despite missing a few games this season, Sharp was still his name sake in front of goal this year. He kicked 57 goals in 15 games to be the leading goalkicker for the club. Sharp also kicked his 800th goal for the club this year.
Tom Sharp (Portland, Hampden)
Another dominant forward from the state’s southwest, Sharp kicked 82 goals in 20 games this season.
Jonathan Simpkin (Colac, Geelong)
The former AFL player is still a damaging player at his best, even in the twilight of his GFL career. Simpkin averaged 24.9 disposals per game and kicked 34 goals across the course of the season.
Lachlan Simpkin (Colac, Geelong)
Simpkin missed Colac’s finals loss against Leopold with a hamstring injury and the absence was obvious. The half back flanker was a key piece of the Tigers’ movement through the centre of the ground, starting a number of attacking forays for the season. Simpkin averaged 22.8 disposals, 7.7 marks and two inside 50s per game.
Lochlan Sirett (Birchip Watchem, North Central)
The ruckman was one of the leading players for the premiers, Birchip Watchem, in the competition this year. He won the best on ground medal in the grand final win over Donald and was also among the best in all but one game for the club.
Andrew Smith (Euroa, Goulburn Valley)
One of the premier big men in the competition and looms as an important piece of his side’s premiership push.
Lachie Smith (Kyabram, Goulburn Valley)
Has consistently appeared among the Bombers’ best this season. A key position player who can impact the game at either end.
Ryan Sparkes (Wonthaggi, Gippsland)
Another future star of the competition. Was in the best 12 of the 19 games he played for the team unlucky not to be in the grand final.
Archie Stevens (South Warrnambool, Hampden)
One of the most promising talents out of the state’s southwest. Made the league’s team of the year and made his VFL debut for Carlton.
Kaine Stevens (Ouyen United, Sunraysia)
The best and fairest winner had a spectacular season, dominating in different areas of the ground throughout the year. He kicked 33 goals in 16 games and was among the best in eight games.
Blake Sutterby (Newtown & Chilwell, Geelong)
The tough Eagle enjoyed a stellar season, capped off by an awesome final against Colac. Sutterby averaged 28.6 disposals per game for the season, and collected 34 disposals, nine clearances, six tackles, five marks and four inside 50s for the match. The hard-nosed midfielder missed out on team of the year honours, but certainly was on the cusp of selection.
Matt Sully (Port Fairy, Hampden)
In a difficult year for his side, Sully continued to battle away and eventually earned team of the year selection.
Bryden Squire (Shepparton Swans, Goulburn Valley)
In his second stint with the Swans, Squire continues to be one of the competition’s must watch players.
Ben Taylor (Ararat, Wimmera)
One of the prime movers in a gun Ararat side who will contest the grand final this weekend. Polled well in the league best and fairest.
Adam Thomson (Gol Gol, Millewa)
Another forward who dominated in front of goal this season, kicking 135 goals from 17 matches. This included a 33 goal outing against Meringur to be one of the greatest hauls ever in country football.
Jai Thompson (Leopold, Geelong)
Leopold’s 2016 premiership captain, Thompson almost retired before the season started. Thompson was recovering from an ACL injury sustained at the end of 2020, and only returned to play under his brother Marcus as he took over captaincy of the Lions. Jai came back into the fold at Leopold and dominated, averaging 28.3 disposals, 5.6 marks, 5.5 tackles and 4.7 inside 50s per game.
Lachlan Thompson (Benalla All Blacks, Ovens and King)
Century goalkicker for the dominant team of the competition.
Marcus Thompson (Leopold, Geelong)
After taking over the captaincy at the Lions for 2022, Thompson has led the group through to the GFL grand final. He finished second in the Mathieson Medal after starting the night as a heavy favourite, polling 23 votes in the count. Thompson averaged 29.5 disposals per game, as well as more than nine tackles and a goal a game throughout the season.
Mitch Thorp (Stawell, Wimmera)
Won the league goalkicking award with his strong presence forward of centre.
Sean Tighe (Hepburn, Central Highlands)
The ruckman was second in the league best and fairest, finishing four votes behind the winner. He averaged more than one goal a game and was among the best in 13 of 18 games for the team.
Lincoln Toner (Stratford, East Gippsland)
Big year for the ruckman who played in the premiership winning team.
Adam Toohey (Gordon, Central Highlands)
The co-coach not only led his team to a premiership but had a good season himself as well. He kicked 71 goals from 18 games including six in the grand final.
Jesse Travaglini (St Mary’s, Geelong)
Named on the half back flank of the team of the year, Travaglini had a strong season for the premiership contenders. The rebounding back averaged 23.6 disposals and 5.1 marks per game, while also pushing forward to kick six goals for the season.
Jye Turland (Warrnambool, Hampden)
The Warrnambool vice-captain has been brilliant again this season and continues to impress.
Nathan Vardy (North Warrnambool, Hampden)
Immediately established himself as one of the league’s best big man after retiring from the AFL. Shapes as a matchwinner in the grand final.
Tristen Waack (Morwell, Gippsland)
Rising star of the competition who played equally well up forward and through the midfield.
Matthew Wade (Swan Hill, Central Murray)
Wade is one of two players to be named among the best in every game he’s played this year. The Swan Hill playing coach led the league’s MVP award with 51 votes. The midfielder has been a leading player at the club since joining Swan Hill in 2015.
Logan Wagener (Leopold, Geelong)
When he wasn’t dominating for Werribee in the VFL, Wagener was dominating for the Lions in the GFL. The hardened midfielder had a strong year and is a main reason for Leopold’s march towards a grand final. Wagener has averaged 26.5 disposals per contest, as well as almost four marks and six tackles per game.
Andrew Wall (Wentworth, Sunraysia)
Finished second in the league best and fairest. The Wentworth defender has been, as his last name suggests, a wall to the opposition teams attack. He was also among the best for the team in their grand final loss.
Jimmy Waters (Tumbarumba, Upper Murray)
Tied with teammate Jacob Reed in league best and fairest and led from the front in drought-breaking premiership year.
Tylar Watts (Geelong West, Geelong)
A rising ruck star, Watts enjoyed a breakout season for the Giants. He was the league’s best ruck at the Mathieson Medal count, polling 15 votes to finish equal-sixth in the competition.
Ricky Wild (Quambatook, Golden Rivers)
This year’s league best and fairest. He averaged one goal a game, in 18 matches, and was in the best players in more than half of the matches during the regular season. Wild will need to find a new club next year after the Saints announced this year would be its last.
Leigh Williams (Yarrawonga, Ovens and Murray)
Leading goalkicker in O & M this year. The former Eastern League star plays with serious presence.
Sam Willian (Skipton, Central Highlands)
The league best and fairest winner this season. The coach kicked 15 goals from 18 games and was instrumental on and off the field for the club.
Luke Wilson (Inverleigh, Geelong and District)
Crossed from rivals North Geelong at the start of the season and enjoyed a brilliant 2022. Finished second in the league medal as one of the competition’s premier big men.
Luke Wines (North Warrnambool, Hampden)
A smooth mover right across the ground and will play in a grand final this weekend. Was named in the competition’s team of the year.
Jayden Wright (Ararat Eagles, Mininera District)
Played a key role in the Eagles’ run to a drought breaking premiership and his efforts were rewarded with the league’s Lewis Medal.
Ross Young (Donald, North Central)
The former Carlton player had a stellar first year at Donald. The 39-year-old was named as the best player in the competition, winning the best and fairest.
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