Revealed: We name the best local footy players from metro Melbourne in 2024
The 2024 local footy season is dawning to a close and to celebrate, we’ve named our best players from the 2024 season. Here’s who made the list.
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The 2024 season is dawning to a close.
We’re celebrating by naming our best players across Melbourne.
There’s ex-AFL names, local heroes and rising young guns.
Here’s a look at local footy’s best from 2024.
Jake Aarts (Dromana, Mornington Peninsula)
The former AFL-Tiger has been a consistent and dynamic performer in the midfield. His running is relentless and his ball-winning ability is matchless.
Christian Algeri (De La Salle, VAFA)
Algeri has been a dominant force in his side’s rise to a grand final as one of the prime ball winners in the division.
Ryan Allan (Caroline Springs, Western)
Having Allan available for more games last year has been a key part in the Lakers’ rise up the ladder this season.
Jed Anderson (Hoppers Crossing, Western)
The highest profile recruit of last season, joining his former North Melbourne teammate Jared Polec who took on the coaching role. Anderson has played a key role in leading the Warriors to the grand final with his nous for contested footy.
Daniel Annetta (Watsonia, Northern)
The 21-year-old took his game to a new level this season. He showcased his burst of speed out of packs and endurance around the ground to win plenty of ball and kick 14 goals to have an impact when forward. A career-best season saw him play all 18 games and be named in the best in 14 of them. Despite Watsonia’s struggles finished third in the Northern Division 2 Coaches’ MVP.
Nelson Aldridge (Warburton Millgrove, Outer East)
Lion-hearted ruckman who captained the Burras to a grand final. Leads from the front and rarely beaten.
Adam Amin (Scoresby, Eastern)
Cracked the 100-goal milestone this season in his side’s Division 4 grand final win. His campaign included bags of seven or more on seven occasions – including a haul of 13. Finished with 102 for the year.
Toby Arms (Springvale Districts, Southern)
Arms has grown exponentially this season after a breakout year in 2023. The dynamic ruckman took more marks, won more clearances and hit the scoreboard more this campaign.
Tom Baravi (West Coburg, Essendon District)
A big ball winner for the Burgers. Baravi is arguably the standout in an already stacked midfield group.
Jackson Barrett (Parkside, Western)
In his side’s return to the top tier, Barrett thrived and immediately established himself as one of the best midfielders in the competition.
Finlay Bayne (Mt Eliza, Mornington Peninsula)
The ex-VFL listed player was a standout in Mt Eliza’s flag with his silky skills and decision making.
Jim Bazzani (Collegians, VAFA)
Bazzani is one of the premier defenders in the VAFA. He found plenty of the ball again this year and showed his ability to intercept.
Lochlan Beecroft (Monbulk, Outer East)
After winning the clubs B & F, the skilful Beecroft went to a new level this season, featuring in Monbulk’s best players in all 18 games.
James Belo (East Ringwood, Eastern)
The tireless midfielder has led the way for the Roos this season en route to the club’s first top-division grand final in more than two decades. Classy user of the ball and has been so consistent for many years, winning a string of best and fairest awards, including the Sir Gilbert Chandler Medal this season by a landslide 11 votes.
Kye Beveridge (St Paul’s McKinnon, Southern)
Beveridge would have won the Southern league top individual gong if it wasn’t for suspension. He polled three more votes than the eventual winner after a superb season. He was the Bulldogs’ most prominent midfielder in a year they reached the preliminary final.
Taidhg Bland (Whittlesea, Northern)
A career-best year for the bulldozing midfielder and it ended in a popular Northern Division 2 league best-and-fairest victory. Clearly caught the eye of his and opposition coaches – snaring a perfect 10 in the Round 8 win over Diamond Creek – to finish second in that count behind Tye Hall.
Mitchell Bongiovanni (Caroline Springs, Western)
One of tough nuts of the competition. Bongiovanni has been among the contested possession leaders.
Jacob Booth (Diamond Creek, Northern)
Returned to Coventry Oval full-time this season and showcased all his class. Was restricted to 14 home-and-away matches but still kicked 15 goals and was in the Creekers’ best seven times. Copped plenty of attention from opposition midfielders this season but still won his fair share of the footy and opened up the game for his teammates.
Nathan Boucher (Collegians, VAFA)
Was the leading ball winner in a Lions side which qualified for the finals.
Anthony Brolic (Rowville, Eastern)
Continued as one of the Eastern league’s most damaging midfield bulls in the Premier Division this season after leading the club to its first top-flight flag in 2023.
Josh Begley (Boronia, Eastern)
In the middle or up forward, opposition teams struggle to combat the former AFL Bomber, who finished the season with a leading 54 goals in Eastern’s Division 2, helping the Hawks to a second-consecutive flag. Makes the mercurial look easy.
Chayce Black (Wandin, Outer East)
The former Eastern Ranges midfielder has had bursts of brilliance this season, featuring in the Bulldogs’ best on 16 occasions in 21 games.
Luke Bunker (Heidelberg, Northern)
The former Coburg VFL best-and-fairest winner rediscovered that level of form this season having claimed the Northern Division 1 Coaches’ MVP on Wednesday night. His influence highlighted by a remarkable 17 mentions in the best in his 19 matches. Twice earned perfect 10 Coaches’ MVP votes – against Eltham and Banyule.
Jai Burns (Fitzroy Stars, Northern)
Another superb season for Fitzroy Stars. Burns was prolific as ever in midfield, winning the ball and probably laying just as many tackles to stop opposition clearances. Again placed in the Coaches’ MVP, a second-straight Team of the Year nod, kicked 18 goals and was named in the best 12 times in 17 matches.
Chris Carey (Mt Eliza, Mornington Peninsula)
The former VFL ruckman was pivotal in Mt Eliza’s first premiership in 19 years, providing experience and class. He was best-on-ground in the decider.
Nathan Carroll (Sunshine, Western)
A premiership player in his first season with the Roos, Carroll was the only man to reach triple figures in the WFNL competition in 2024.
Jack Charleston (Spotswood, Western)
One of the big ball winners in the competition. With injuries to some of his key teammates, Charleston shouldered the extra responsibility and was brilliant.
Jesse Cherry (Mitcham, Eastern)
Part of an all-conquering midfield brigade at the Tigers which has won back-to-back Eastern Division 1 premierships. Had another consistent year, in his side’s best 15 times of 20 matches, booting 11 goals.
Brandon Coletta (St Albans, Essendon District)
While he only played 13 games, Coletta was huge and among the best recruits of the local footy season after crossing from East Keilor.
Tom Condon (Parkside, Western)
Recruited from Strathmore at the start of the season, Condon went onto become the leading goalkicker in the competition. Capable of hurting the opposition in several ways.
Josh Covelli (Hillside, Essendon District)
Reached the magical ton for the first time in his career this season finishing with 105 in 18 games including finals.
Stephen Cumming (Rosebud, Mornington Peninsula)
Impacted many games in the ruck and around the ground as the Buds made the finals.
James Clark (Uni Blacks, VAFA)
Clark was one of the leading midfielders for his side as it secured its top flight status.
Dylan Clarke (Heidelberg, Northern)
Was the clear No. 1 player in the competition at the halfway mark of the season but then went overseas and missed the next five games. Ended the campaign with 12 home-and-away matches, featuring in the best in nine of them. Despite missing a number of games, his early season form still had him ranked highly in the Coaches’ MVP and Rosbrook Medal.
Will Coates (St Kevin’s, VAFA)
One of local footy’s most dominant big men. Coates fed his midfielders but also found plenty of the footy himself.
Patrick Cotter (Blackburn, Eastern)
Ever-reliable in defence for the Burners this season, his 17 matches in Eastern’s Premier Division earned 10 showings in the best – and among a comp swimming with talent, a spot in the back pocket in the Team of the Year.
Zech Cuppins (Reservoir, Northern)
Named captain before he’d played a game for the club, Cuppins delivered a brilliant season in a struggling team. Despite the Mustangs winning just one game, he finished third in the Coaches’ MVP voting. Polled nine votes in a loss to Ivanhoe, eight in losses to Lalor and Heidelberg West and a seven in a 111-point loss to Kinglake.
Riley D’Arcy (Frankston YCW, Mornington Peninsula)
The power forward kicked 66 goals in his first season art the Stonecats to claim the league goalkicking award.
Matt Dennis (East Keilor, EDFL)
The veteran big man is ageing like a fine wine. When Premier Data share their weekly stats he’s there more often than not among local footy’s best.
Akol Deng (Yarraville Seddon, Western)
The athletic big man has enjoyed another strong. Has a strong presence around the ground and was key in the Eagles eventually securing the double chance.
Sean Downie (East Brighton, Southern)
As expected, Downie made the jump to the top flight with ease. He grew an attachment to the Sherrin and was a regular goal kicker. If it wasn’t for suspension mid-season and an injury late in the year, he would have improved on his top five league medal finish.
Youseph Dib (Thomastown, Northern)
Came with big expectations and delivered in spades. The former Oakleigh Chargers gun is still only 21 but plays an eye-catching game that is sure to have him in league and club best-and-fairest contention. Played all 18 games, kicked 18 goals and was in the Bears’ best 15 times – including the final 14 games of the home-and-away campaign to lift his club into the top-five.
Lewis Diggins (Edithvale-Aspendale, Mornington Peninsula)
Diggins’ power and strength in the midfield was the perfect ingredient for Edi-Asp as it soared to premiership glory.
Taylin Duman (Doncaster East, Eastern)
Named at centre half-back in the Eastern league’s Premier Division Team of the Year, the former Fremantle Docker was a consistent performer for the Lions in a season where they rarely, if at all, had an unchanged line-up from week to week.
Trent Dumont (Strathmore, EDFL)
The ex-North Melbourne and Port Adelaide player was sensational in his first season at the Mores. A damaging midfielder.
Matthew Dussin (Chelsea, Mornington Peninsula)
The former Myrtleford champion was a standout this season with his strong defensive work, influence and leadership.
Jacob Edwards (Cheltenham, Southern)
The ex-AFL listed Kangaroo starred in his return to local footy this year. He won the hit-outs in majority of his games and consistently collected over 20 disposals a game. Edwards was basically another midfielder in Cheltenham’s side.
Corey Ellis (Keilor, EDFL)
The ex-AFL man has been as damaging as ever this season for the Blues. He’s missed just one game so far and has been key in their pursuit of back-to-back flags.
Ryan Exon (East Ringwood, Eastern)
Former Coburg co-captain Ryan Exon committed to the Roos this year after calling time on a VFL stint stretching more than 100 matches, including a flag with Box Hill in 2013. The midfielder was one of the most consistent in Eastern’s top-flight this year.
Patrick Farrant (Fitzroy Stars, Northern)
Controversial given he finished second in the Northern Division 3 goalkicking award behind Sam Rexhepi but Farrant kicked 43 goals in just nine games. Then proceeded to win the major semi-final basically off his own boot with an incredible eight goals in a six-point win over Old Paradians. The Stars’ boom off-season recruit added another eight in the grand final but it wsan’t enough to deliver a drought-breaking flag.
Kristen Feehan (Dingley, Southern)
Feehan stood tall in Dingley’s backline during another stellar campaign. He paired another Southern league interleague appearance with yet another grand final.
Braden Ferrari (Hoppers Crossing, Western)
After just 10 games last season, a more consistent presence in the Warriors’ line-up has been a key factor in his side’s rise up the ladder. One of the elite key position players.
Sam Fisher (Old Xavs, VAFA)
One of the prime recruits of the VAFA off-season. The WAFL Sandover Medal winner delivered on plenty of promise.
Blake Fitzgerald (Hurstbridge, Northern)
The most improved player in the competition? Hard to argue he’s not. A breakout campaign saw Fitzgerald win possessions at win, dominating on the inside and proving dangerous on the outside with his endless running. Played all 19 games for the Bridges’ this season and was in the best 11 times.
Sam Fowler (Dromana, Mornington Peninsula)
Dynamic goalkicker who was one of the Tigers’ best players this season.
Josh Fox (East Ringwood, Eastern)
The former Cheltenham spearhead slotted into East Ringwood’s line-up seamlessly this year, booting 38 majors to help the club to the Premier Division grand final.
Aidan Frenetic (Old Scotch, VAFA)
One of the best inside midfielders in the VAFA. Thrives on the pressure of finals footy.
Darcy Fritsch (Coldstream, Eastern)
It’s become a rare feat to kick 100 goals in a season, but the Coldstream favourite son did just that this year, marking the milestone in the Eastern Division 3 finals.
Ryan Garthwaite (Montrose, Eastern)
The ex-AFL Tiger poured in 56 majors from just 13 appearances in Eastern’s Division 1 this season after battling through injuries.
Billy Geurts (Dromana, Mornington Peninsula)
The brilliant ruckman won the Mornington Peninsula league medal, to add to his impressive CV that includes premierships, grand final best-on-ground medal, team of the year etc.
Sam Gilmore (Old Paradians, Northern)
Back-to-back for Gilmore after also being named No. 1 in our Division 1 countdown last year. And back-to-back-to-back premierships after playing a major role in the Raiders Northern Division 3 flag win. The superstar ruckman brought all the top-flight class and leadership to Division 3 and was unsurprisingly named in the ruck in the Team of the Year.
Marty Gleeson (Uni Blues, VAFA)
The reigning league best-and-fairest continued to excel across halfback and was found plenty of the footy.
Michael Griechen (Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula)
The midfielder joined Red Hill this year from the Eastern league and was rarely out of the best players, his superb season capped when he tied for the league medal.
Madden Griffin (Hampton, Southern)
Griffin fell agonisingly short of kicking a century of goals but produced one a mighty Southern league season. He finished with 96, including five in the grand final, in a premiership year. In one of the more bizarre league medal counts, Griffin only polled 14 votes despite not going goal less and kicking seven plus goals on six occasions.
Taylor Gibson (Woori Yallock, Outer East)
Gun forward who returned to the Tigers this season and made a huge impact, kicking 65 goals in 19 matches. His hands are strong and his kicking is long.
Luca Goonan (Frankston YCW, Mornington Peninsula)
Big, strong midfielder who often gets Frankston YCW going by winning the ball in close and pinging it out to his running teammates.
Johnathan Haidon (Pines, Mornington Peninsula)
The former VFL player had an exceptional season; he was invariably in the best when Pines won.
Charlie Haley (Balwyn, Eastern)
Topped the goalkicking in Eastern’s top division this season with 56 majors from 20 games, helping the Tigers to their first grand final since 2016. Is there a better medium-sized forward getting around in local footy?
Tye Hall (South Morang, Northern)
The Lions’ premiership captain was already a star of the competition but took his game to a new level this season. Won plenty of ball but was able to push forward and hit the scoreboard too, kicking an equal career-best 22 majors – including a bag of seven against Northcote Park. That influence reflected in a Northern Division 2 Coaches’ MVP and second place in the league best-and-fairest.
Jake Hammond (Blackburn, Eastern)
The club-favourite returned to Morton Park this year – and didn’t disappoint – with the enigmatic forward kicking 41 goals in 16 games.
Matt Hanson (Airport West, EDFL)
The ball magnet joined the club at the start of the season from Werribee VFL and racked up huge numbers consistently.
Ben Harding (Old Melburnians, VAFA)
There is no better way to describe this man than as a ball magnet. Led all comers in the VAFA for disposals this season.
Dane Harvey (Fitzroy, VAFA)
The young forward has a bright future ahead of him. Showed plenty of promise in the competition’s highest grade.
Sam Hayes (Cheltenham, Southern)
The star defender was more dangerous on the attacking end than he was on the defensive. Hayes returned to Cheltenham full-time early in the year and was an impenetrable wall on the last line.
Benjamin Hays (Old Scotch, VAFA)
One of the leading men in Old Scotch’s midfield. Able to impact the game around the ground.
Callum Heath (Beaumaris, VAFA)
While his side might have finished second last on the ladder, Heath remained as one of the league’s most dominant big men.
Nathan Heath (Mornington, Mornington Peninsula)
Inside midfielder and one of the best in the Mornington Peninsula competition. Should be playing VFL. So driven and prepares better than any.
Parker Heatley (North Heidelberg, Northern)
Followed in his father, and coach, Jason’s footsteps winning the Division 1 league goalkicking title with 59 goals. An incredible achievement for a 19-year-old in his first full season of senior football. Kicked a season-high nine against Greensborough and also bagged six three times, against West Preston-Lakeside, Banyule and Montmorency. Finished fourth in the Rosbrook Medal too.
Harry Hill (Old Brighton, VAFA)
Some would claim this man as the best player in local footy. He produced another dominant year but is unfortunately the hardluck story of the VAFA finals.
Joel Hillis (Devon Meadows, Mornington Peninsula)
The Panthers vice-captain had an enormous season, he averaged about 30 disposals and has kicked 39 goals. He will relish the big stage of the finals.
Tom Hofert (Pascoe Vale, EDFL)
The dominant big man signed from Queensland at the start of the season and has quickly established himself as one of local footy’s best.
Austin Hodge (Point Cook, Western)
Hodge established himself as the main man in the Bulldogs’ midfield after injuries ripped through the senior line-up. A strong clearance winner.
Nash Holmes (Montmorency, Northern)
The Montmorency recruit took top honours in our Northern Division 1 countdown but sadly missed out on the Rosbrook Medal after being suspended in the final game of the regular season. The gun midfielder kicked 25 goals in his 16 home-and-away matches, received a perfect 10 Coaches’ MVP votes three times and finished behind Luke Bunker.
Nathan Howard (Greensborough, Northern)
The No. 1 ruckman in the competition and surely a maiden Team of the Year selection awaits. Dominated the centre bounce this season and around the ground with his tap work and second efforts to win clearances or clear a path for his teammates. Didn’t miss a game and was in the Borough’s best 11 times. If he can add a goalkicking string to his bow, he’d be unstoppable.
Liam Hunt (North Heidelberg, Northern)
The gun midfielder was a shock omission from last year’s Team of the Year, surely not this season. Among the league leaders in a range of categories, stepping up with Bulldogs midfield mates Jesse Tardio and Tom Wallis restricted to 11 and 13 games respectively. Despite getting plenty of attention from rival midfielders, was still in North’s best 10 times in his 17 outings.
Lachie Johns (Vermont, Eastern)
The former Coburg on-baller has just about done it all in the Eastern league, winning several Vermont best and fairests, captaining two premierships and claiming a Chandler Medal as the best and fairest in the top division in 2021. Never has a problem raking in the possessions, nor hitting the scoreboard, kicking 19 goals from 18 games this year – named in the best in 11 of those.
Ricky Johnson (Doveton, Southern)
Johnson recorded a league-high 26 votes to take out the Southern league’s Division 2 medal. The smooth-mover was a perennial force for the Doves this year, slicing sides open with his neat ball use.
Jack Johnston (Greensborough, Northern)
Starting to run out of superlatives for the Borough captain. Short odds to earn a sixth Division 1 Team of the Year guernsey after another superb season in defence. If the NFNL had a Captain of the Year, he’d be a certainty.
Chris Jones (South Croydon, Eastern)
The centre half-back returned to the Eastern Premier Division club after a 50-game stint with WAFL club Swan Districts from 2021-2023, and didn’t miss a beat, helping the Bulldogs to a finals return.
Matt Jones (South Croydon, Eastern)
The on-baller missed a handful of games this season but he was certainly damaging across all 14 appearances – named in the best in 12 of those. “It’s the way he (Matt Jones) exits stoppage and gets clear of his opponent – that allows him to use the footy and make good decisions … he’s a pleasure to coach, put it that way,” South Croydon coach Brendan Allen said.
Lin Jong (Mulgrave, Eastern)
Runner-up for the Eastern league’s Division 2 medal this season, the ex-AFL Bulldog was one of Mulgrave’s most consistent – putting up 14 mentions in the best from 15 matches.
Rhett Jordon (Croydon, Eastern)
The former Premier Division star crossed to the Division 2 club from Norwood as playing-coach – and he certainly didn’t disappoint – kicking 38 goals from 20 matches to help the club to the grand final.
Kane Keppel (Park Orchards, Eastern)
The former VFL Blue turned it on in attack for the Sharks in Eastern’s Division 1, kicking 40 goals from 21 appearances – including a haul of 10 majors early in the year – to help his club to the grand final.
Patrick Kerr (St Kevins, VAFA)
Finished as the leading goalkicker after the home-and-away season with 50 goals and was a star forward of centre.
Tom Keys (Heidelberg, Northern)
A brilliant return to form for the 2021 Division 2 league best-and-fairest and four-time Team of the Year gun. Is a fifth nod on the cards? Started life as a Tigers with a bang, earning a perfect 10 Coaches’ MVP votes for his dominant Round 1 performance against North Heidelberg. That form followed him throughout the season and he capped a stellar campaign with the Frank Rosbrook Medal.
Brayden Kilpatrick (South Croydon, Eastern)
The ex-VFL midfielder continued to tear the Eastern league’s top division apart this season, regularly hauling in big numbers. “His decision-making under pressure is remarkable – he just finds the right option all the time,” coach Brendan Allen said.
Baxter Knight (Chelsea, Mornington Peninsula)
The ball-winning former VFL midfielder played a big role in the Seagulls’ surge into the grand final.
Matthew Kreymborg (St Paul’s McKinnon, Southern)
Kreymborg was a rejuvenated player this year and he would have likely walked in the league medal and goalkicking if it wasn’t for injury. He was a length ahead of the goalkicking and equal first in the league vote count at round 14 when he fractured his leg. Kreymborg returned only five weeks later to take his side into a preliminary final. Two weeks later he kicked six goals in the third quarter of a first semi-final.
Sean Lai (Cheltenham, Southern)
Lai is sure to slot in at half back of the Southern league team of the year after a super season. His early-season form quickly promoted the left-footer from the Southern league’s under-19 interleague side to the senior one. Lai also ran inside the top five for the league medal.
Jarrod Lake (Boronia, Eastern)
Has long been the premier full-back in the Eastern Division 2 competition - and this year was no different. Tough to beat and rarely loses a contest. Again won his key post in the Team of the Year.
Marcus Lentini (Montmorency, Northern)
The reigning Division 1 Coaches’ MVP somehow flew under the radar this season with Holmes and Uzelac stealing the spotlight. However, he never ceases to produce outstanding performances. Won plenty of the ball in-and-under but also showed his creativity and ability to step up scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Caleb Lewis (Dingley, Southern)
Lewis drove Dingley to the Southern league Division 1 grand final with the competition’s goalkicking award and a third-placed league medal run. The young spearhead worked in tandem terrifically with fellow forward and ex-AFL player Trent Dennis-Lane.
Nathan Ligris (Fitzroy, VAFA)
Ligris was fantastic in the middle of the ground for the Roys and was clearly their leading ball winner.
Tyreece Leiu (South Belgrave, Eastern)
The former Carlton VFL tall hit the ground running back at local level full-time in Eastern’s Division 1 this season to be one of the Saints’ most important players. It’s no surprise their premiership chances took a huge hit when the versatile defender succumbed to a serious leg injury late in the piece. Overlooked at the 2021 draft, but at 194cm and 90-odd kg, he’s a tough match-up and featured in South Belgrave’s best most weeks.
Jack Lonie (Cheltenham, Southern)
Lonie was the Southern league’s most damaging player in 2024. He suffered a hamstring injury, which hindered his season at times but when he was on the park he was unstoppable. The ex-AFL Saint had six games where his hands were glued to the footy and he kicked goals. He amazingly only polled seven votes in the league medal.
Kurt Lo Po (Edithvale Aspendale, Mornington Peninsula)
The quick and courageous midfielder had a tremendous season, jointly winning the MPFNL Division 2 league medal and playing a starring role in the Eagles’ premiership victory.
Ethan Lowe (Watsonia, Northern)
Won the league goalkicking title with 57 majors in 18 appearances. A sensational return in his first season at Binnak Park. Kicked a season-high six against South Morang and St Mary’s and bagged five against Northcote Park, Diamond Creek, Laurimar and Thomastown. Only 21 and will only be better.
Sam Lowson (East Ringwood, Eastern)
The North Melbourne state leaguer is a class above when he returns to local level, as shown by his 36 goals from just 10 appearances in Eastern’s top-flight this year.
Brent Macaffer (Old Eltham Collegians, Northern)
The Collingwood premiership star returned to the Northern league this season after two seasons away and reminded everyone of his undoubted class. Rival coaches were clearly impressed, voting him in as the Northern Division 3 Coaches’ MVP, while the umpires agreed, awarding him the league best-and-fairest. The second time he’s done the double.
Nicholas MacDonald Girolami (Mt Eliza, Mornington Peninsula)
The young man known as “Bob” returned from a fractured foot to play a starring role in the Redlegs’ stirring grand final win over Dromana with a rock-solid display in the backline.
Caleb McPherson (Albion, Western)
A dominant midfielder who thrived throughout the season and his form saw him earn a shot in the VFL with the Northern Bullants.
Ryan McNay (Kilsyth, Eastern)
Took home the league medal in Eastern’s Division 4 this season, cracking in consistently amid the crash-and-bash nature of the competition. Of 16 matches played, the midfielder featured in the best in 12 of them – while also kicking 13 goals.
Mitch Mellis (Boronia, Eastern)
Winner of the Eastern league’s Division 2 medal in 2023 and 2024, the tough-as-nails midfielder was again a key driver in the Hawks’ flag this year. Coach Matt Clark says he’s a “contested beast”.
“He just goes all day – he trains like he plays. He just loves a contest – a hungry footballer.”
Nick Mende (Healesville, Outer East)
Classy and experienced playmaker who was pivotal in the Bloods’ flag triumph.
Lachlan McDonald (Rowville, Eastern)
One of Rowville’s most consistent performers this season through the midfield on the way to a preliminary final in Eastern’s top division. Twelve mentions in the best from 18 games, while also kicking 16 goals.
Zach Monkhorst (Woori Yallock, Outer East)
The ex-North Melbourne VFL ruckman capped an outstanding season by winning the OEFN Premier league medal. His strong marking, mobility and big presence make him a formidable Outer East player.
Campbell Moorfield (Uni Blacks, VAFA)
The gun defender was again one of the most important players for his side again this season.
Isaac Morrisby (East Malvern, Southern)
The East Malvern skipper kicked 83 goals in a career-best season. Morrisby fought Bali belly, tonsillitis and two opponents in a season where he took his side into a grand final.
Aaron Mullett (Wandin, Outer East)
The former Carlton and North Melbourne forward has kicked 59 goals from 16 outings to steer Wandin to another grand final.
Chad Mulvogue (Langwarrin, Mornington Peninsula)
Highly skilled onballer with the fitness and strength to run as well in the fourth quarter as he did in the first.
Luca Muratore (Airport West, EDFL)
The young star finished as the leading goalkicker in the competition with 47 goals. Later in the year, the Eagles also elected to throw him into the middle of the ground. What a future he has.
Billy Murphy (Old Ivanhoe, VAFA)
As his side stepped up to the second tier, Murphy showed why he is such a classy player.
Daniel Neilson (Vermont, Eastern)
The ex-AFL Kangaroo led the charge in attack for Vermont this year, putting through 40 majors from 16 games.
Kane Noonan (Mooroolbark, Eastern)
The hard-running midfielder was again one of the best in Eastern’s Division 1, leading a revival at the young Mustangs. The former VFL man was named on the wing in the Team of the Year.
Tim O’Brien (Doncaster East, Eastern)
A shining light for the Eastern Premier Division club in a lean year on-field, the ex-AFL Hawk and Bulldog produced 37 goals from just 14 matches.
Nick O’Kearney (Keilor, EDFL)
Missed some time through injury but he’s still managed to play 15 games. Brilliant ball user who can break games open with his pace.
Ben Overman (St Bernard’s, VAFA)
A strong ball winner for the Snowdogs throughout the season who enjoyed the step up to a higher level.
Jake Parente (Mitcham, Eastern)
The former VFL key forward the goalkicking for the Tigers in Eastern’s Division 1 with 45 on the way to back-to-back premierships – and promotion to Premier grade. Has been one of the club’s most influential on-field for a number of years.
Nicholas Pavlous (Old Brighton, VAFA)
A prime mover in a Tonners side who have been brilliant to watch throughout the season.
Jackson Peet (Dingley, Southern)
Peet produced a career-best season. The Dingley captain will stroll in his club’s best and fairest, was named skipper of the Southern league interleague side, the Division 1 team of the year and his troops into a grand final on Sunday.
Jordan Perry (Northcote Park, Northern)
Amazing what an injury-free run can do. Perry has always been class but been held back by his body, playing 10 and nine games in the past two seasons. However, he was back to his best in 2024, playing 17 games, kicking 12 goals and earning a mention in the Cougars’ best 12 times, while also placing highly in the league best-and-fairest and Coaches’ MVP.
Josh Pickess (Hoppers Crossing, Western)
The Warriors would have been thrilled when he made the decision to return to local footy full-time this season. A bollocking midfielder who provides a damaging one-two punch with Anderson. Can also go forward and kick a goal.
Jordan Pollard (Murrumbeena, Southern)
Premiership captain, team of the year and a top five league best and fairest finish – 2024 was a memorable one for Jordan Pollard.
Corey Preston (East Ringwood, Eastern)
The midfielder-forward split his time between the VFL this season for Werribee and Eastern’s top-flight – and looked a class above each time he returned to local level.
“He’s been next-level for us this year when he’s come back,” coach Ben Osborne said of the midfielder-forward, who has 10 mentions in the best from 14 matches and 26 goals at the Roos this year to help the club to a grand final.
Billy Quigley (Dromana, Mornington Peninsula)
The consistent midfielder has built a fine reputation for his contested ballwinning and non-stop running.
James Rausa (Donvale, Eastern)
The tough-as-nails midfielder made it back-to-back league medals in Eastern’s Division 3 this year, with the Donvale skipper also falling agonisingly short of winning consecutive flags for his club. A standout for one of local footy’s most dominant teams of the past two seasons.
Sam Raru (Upwey Tecoma, Outer East)
The Oakleigh Chargers premiership player and Port Melbourne VFL player made a big impact back at his junior club, finishing second in the league medal count.
Fletcher Roberts (Mulgrave, Eastern)
The premiership-winning Western Bulldog again proved a weapon in attack for the Lions this year, booting 30 goals from 15 matches to help the club to another finals campaign in Division 2.
Lucas Rocci (Werribee Districts, Western)
Returned to the club at the start of the season and has been one of the recruits of the year. Limited to just 11 games but the midfielder has been damaging forward of centre.
Dareo Rogers (Murrumbeena, Southern)
Rogers took huge steps as a player in 2024. He represented the Southern league, won a premiership at Murrumbeena, where he won best-afield, and is likely to be on a VFL list in 2025 after finishing the year training with Port Melbourne VFL.
Brodie Romensky (Maribyrnong Park, Essendon District)
Returned to the club at the start of the season and has been one of if not the most dominant midfielder in the Division 1 competition. Has the ability to go forward when needed.
Ben Ronke (Aberfeldie, EDFL)
Thrived in his first season as co-coach of Abers and was immediately among the best players for his side.
Zak Roscoe (Cranbourne, Southern)
Roscoe has had a stranglehold on the Southern league for the past three years and it finally culminated into a deserved league medal. He finished the year with 14 votes in six games to clinch it. One of those games included 30 disposals and 5.5.
James Ross (Vermont, Eastern)
The brother of Vermont great Robbie is still only young, but has been comfortable at senior level for a handful of years now, becoming one of the powerhouse club’s most important defenders. Recognised with a Team of the Year gong again this season as he continued to impress as one of the EFNL Premier Division’s best.
Ahmed Saad (Pascoe Vale, Essendon District)
In his first season with the Panthers, Saad has kicked 51 goals en route to the grand final.
Brede Seccull (Old Hailebury, VAFA)
Simply is a gun. Earned his side promotion at least and he belongs in the top tier.
Matthew Scharenberg (Olinda Ferny Creek, Outer East)
The ex-Magpie is one of the best defenders in community football, equally comfortable negating or creating.
Wayne Schultz (Ivanhoe, Northern)
The Ivanhoe club great and coach really needs to put himself in the best or have someone award him Coaches’ MVP votes. Despite only being in the Hoers’ best five times in 16 matches, he almost pinched the Northern Division 3 league best-and-fairest in his first year, coming across from the VAFA. Clearly left out of Leader’s top-30 in error.
Michael Selsby (Yarraville Seddon, Western)
Despite being listed by Werribee, the gun midfielder played most of his footy with the Eagles during the year and found plenty of it. Bobbed up with multiple goals in four games.
Nik Schoenmakers (Rowville, Easter)
Has long been one of the star big men of the Eastern league, and this season he again stood out, winning the No. 1 ruck spot in the Premier Division Team of the Year. Not bad after “brutal” leg injury last year – but then again, he even managed to return in record time from that to feature in the Hawks’ 2023 top-flight flag.
Jackson Sketcher (Noble Park, Eastern)
Long been one of local footy’s most consistent performers, and this year was no different for the former ‘The Recruit’ star, who continued to impress across halfback and through the midfield. Winner of the Eastern league’s top individual honour, the Sir Gilbert Chandler Medal in 2023.
Bowen Smith (Balwyn, Eastern)
As crucial as any to the Tigers’ midfield brigade, standing out as one of the Eastern Premier power’s most consistent this season. Earned a starting spot in the Team of the Year, too.
Tim Smith (South Belgrave, Eastern)
Again stood out as one of the Saints’ most important players, with the ex-AFL Demon kicking 46 goals from 19 games in Eastern’s Division 1 on the way to another finals campaign.
Marcus Stavrou (Old Xaverians, VAFA)
One of the prime movers of a strong Old Xavs side which ultimately missed finals. Had huge disposal numbers.
Josh Tovey (Norwood, Eastern)
The former Eastern Ranges captain and defender fired in his maiden season for the Norsemen in Eastern’s top division – and was recognised with a spot on the wing in the Team of the Year.
In an outing against Blackburn, he hauled in 27 possessions – 22 of those contested – to go with 10 tackles and six marks.
Athan Tsialtas (Strathmore, EDFL)
The dominant key forward has enjoyed another fine season and been one of his side’s most reliable players when called upon.
Caleb Van Oostveen (Berwick, Eastern)
A mainstay in defence for the top-division club, former Berwick coach Clint Evans says the backman has become a linchpin – while finding plenty of the ball.
And he boasts courage in spades.
“He’s like our quarterback – he’s a stopper, but then he gets his own possessions … he’s getting 25 each week, uses the ball really well, very, very courageous,” Evans said.
“He’s small, but puts his head where it probably shouldn’t be a few times down back to help out.”
Named at full-back in the Team of the Year this season.
Cal Verrell (Rowville, Eastern)
The ex-Eastern Ranges captain dominated at centre half-back for the reigning premier this season, and was recognised with a spot in the Premier Division Team of the Year. Strongly built and a sound interceptor, he’s clean by foot and is also on Carlton’s VFL list.
“He’s an exceptional reader of the play, his ability to intercept or halve contests as a key defender shows maturity beyond his age,” Carlton development coach Tom Langford said.
Dillon Viojo-Rainbow (Werribee Districts, Western)
Another impressive season for the reigning league best-and-fairest. One of the best clearance players in the league.
James Stewart (Uni Blues, VAFA)
Before injury marked an early end to his season, Stewart was shaping as the competition’s recruit of the year. Emerged as one of the VAFA’s leading forwards.
Kai Stretton (Dingley, Southern)
The Footscray VFL-listed midfielder was a blessing for Dingley this year. Stretton won the footy relentlessly and hit the scoreboard for six consecutive weeks during the year.
Sam Toner (Narre Warren, Outer East)
The teenager started the season playing local football. He will end it as “the smoky’’ of the AFL draft in November. For Narre, he kicked 50 goals from 13 matches.
Mav Taylor (Rowville, Eastern)
The key forward led the way for the reigning premier in attack this season with 42 goals in Eastern’s top-flight – including a last-round matchwinning performance which bagged five and sent the Hawks into the finals.
Tristan Tweedie (East Ringwood, Eastern)
Carries the weight of a reputation as one of the Eastern league’s leading defenders, and he certainly upheld that expectation again this year on return to East Ringwood from Norwood.
Alex Urban (Balwyn, Eastern)
Ever-consistent through the midfield, Urban won Balwyn’s best and fairest last season on the way to a Team of the Year nod in Eastern’s top-flight – and this year he continued to stand out as one of the club’s best.
Jesse Uren (Mitcham, Eastern)
The Tigers’ co-captain had a blistering season, helping the club to back-to-back Eastern Division 1 crowns with 33 goals from 20 games.
Callum Urquhart (Mt Evelyn, Outer East)
Mercurial player who can turn a game in a matter of minutes. Booted 34 goals from 10 matches.
Stef Uzelac (Montmorency, Northern)
Said on Twitter at halftime of Monty’s Round 1 game against Bundoora that Uzelac would be the centre half-back in the Team of the Year. I’m feeling pretty confident about that prediction at the Magpies’ co-captain produced arguably a career-best year. His flexibility is a huge weapon but his production never waned. Is racing the clock to be fit for Saturday’s Division 1 grand final.
Charlie Vague (St Bernard’s, VAFA)
Finished the season as his side’s leading ball winner with over 400 disposals. Did some of his best work in tight.
Brad Watson (Montrose, Eastern)
Regularly in Montrose’s best again this season, coach Gary Ayres says the courageous bull is “growing more and more with the responsibility of being involved in stoppages (and) contests.” Named in the Eastern Division 1 Team of the Year in the centre.
Connor Weightman (East Ringwood, Eastern)
The midfielder stepped away from state league footy with Williamstown at the end of last year – continuing at the Roos full-time this season as one of their most important players helping it to a grand final.
Brandon White (Beaconsfield, Eastern)
Two seasons in the Eastern league, and a second-straight nod in the Team of the Year at centre half-back in Division 1. The ex-AFL man hasn’t missed a beat since returning to the Eagles. “We can play him anywhere and he does his best work weekly behind the footy across halfback and he just reads it so well and sets the ground up really well,” coach Mick Fogarty has said of White.
Harrison White (Werribee Districts, Western)
In just 12 games, due to VFL commitments with the local club, White was damaging. Consistently finds plenty of the footy and can break away with speed.
Matthew Williamson (Aberfeldie, EDFL)
Back after a stint in the WAFL and dominant throughout. Found plenty of the footy and played a key role in Abers’ return to finals footy.
Luke Winter (St Kevin’s, VAFA)
The SKOB star is capable of turning the game at any moment if he’s given the opportunity.
Ben Wratten (Powelltown, Outer East)
The dominant ruckman won his fifth league best and fairest in the Outer East league. He’s a champion from head to toe.
Lachlan Wynd (Rowville, Eastern)
Followed up 55 goals last year with 40 this season, splitting his time between Eastern’s top division and North Melbourne VFL. Emerged as one of the Premier Division’s top key forwards in recent seasons.
Brad Xavier (Keilor, EDFL)
One of the leading defenders in the EDFL Premier Division. Able to take the opposition’s bets but can come off an intercept.
Kye Yodgee (Banyule, Northern)
A career-best season for the Bears’ star, rocketing into the top echelon of midfielders in the competition, and finishing joint third in the Rosbrook Medal. Earned a pair of perfect 10s in the Coaches’ MVP – against Montmorency and Macleod. Thrived on the contest, getting in and under, winning clearances or farming the ball out to running teammates. Also kicked 13 goals in his 18 matches.
Tyson Young (Airport West, EDFL)
Developed a strong partnership with Matt Hanson in the middle of the ground for the Eagles. Won big numbers throughout.
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