Best country Aussie rules players from across Australia to watch in 2023
They are not your household names. They don’t run out in front of thousands of fans. Yet these 150 country men’s players continue to get the job done. SEE THE FULL LIST
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They are not your household names. They don’t run out in front of thousands of fans.
No, these 150 men’s Aussie rules players line up in country competitions across Australia.
Here are some of Australia’s hidden country footy talents.
Jordan Delbridge (Mines Rovers, WA)
Delbridge’s glittering career includes two GFL flags with Rovers and a string of WA country selections, and he notched his 150th league game in 2021.
The Mines captain was the lone Goldfields Football League selection in the special All-Stars team named following the state country championships in Perth.
Despite an ankle injury, Delbridge was a strong performer despite the GFL team enduring a 0-4 record.
Sam Donegan (St Albans, Vic)
Donegan is quickly becoming the league’s brightest young star.
St Albans did not have a success campaign in his first year at the club, but he was a bright light for the winless side.
Donegan averaged 24.3 disposals per game, including a 36 disposal, four goal game in round seven last season.
Will Paynter (Mallala, SA)
A terrific player across the half-backline, Paynter was a catalyst for Mallala’s success this season.
Can rip a game apart with his ability to intercept mark and hit teammates up the ground on the rebound, and also has the ability to move forward and kick a goal.
Has five goals and 10 best-player nods in 15 games and also finished third in the medal count.
Braden Fimmano (Harvey Bulls, WA)
The 183cm, 77kg Fimmano is lightening across the field and proved a handful again in the South West Football League.
His efforts saw him selected in the New Holland State Country team in July.
Ryan Banks-Smith (Aspley, Qld)
Banks-Smith received 23 votes in the B&F to earn the Grogan Medal.
He was also awarded the QAFL Coaches MVP award and received 12 best on ground votes throughout the season.
Brock Aston (Redland/Victoria Point, Qld)
Aston’s QAFL season included claiming the Goal of the Year gong and 17 votes in the best and fairest voting.
Those accolades were due reward for one of the best in the competition.
Matthew Palfrey (Railways, WA)
The 27-year-old has been a regular goalkicker and that trend continued in 2022.
The one-time WA State Academy under-18s talent was chosen in the New Holland State Country team thanks to his match-turning efforts in the Great Southern Football League.
Andrew McKay (Hepburn, Vic)
Has formed a powerful combination with Mitch Banner with the duo kicking more than 100 goals between them for Hepburn.
McKay kicked 50 goals to finish seventh on the goalkicking list in the Central Highlands competition.
Simon Panizza (Williams, WA)
The 29-year-old found plenty of the ball in the Upper Great Southern Football League for Williams.
The club may have missed out on finals by one spot but 181cm Panizza did all he could, in turn being selected in the New Holland State Country team.
Sam Willain (Skipton, Vic)
The player/coach was pivotal on and off the field to the success of the Central Highlands team this season.
Willain was a regular goalkicker but his leadership was influential, evidenced by him taking him the league’s best and fairest award.
Caleb Franks (Redland/Victoria Point, Qld)
Team of the Year member Franks received 11 B&F votes along with a massive 15 best player points in a dominant QAFL campaign.
Matt Hammelmann (Redland/Victoria Point, Qld)
Hammelmann was the competition’s leading goal kicker for 2022.
He was a Team of the Year member, and received 12 votes in the B&F count and 10 best player nods.
Joel Fisher (Dunolly, Vic)
After crossing from Kangaroo Flat, Fisher has been brilliant in his new colours kicking 41 goals and being named in the best 10 times in the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition.
Ben Moroney (Pinnaroo, SA)
The 2022 Mail Medallist put together a sensational year for the Supa Roos.
Moroney is a tall, fast-moving forward who creates space brilliantly on the lead and can take big marks in the air.
Finishing second in the league goalkicking with 53 goals before finals, Moroney can also put in a shift through the middle with clean skills and efficient ball use.
Has 14 best player-appearances in his 17 games this year.
Myles McNamara (West Whyalla, SA)
McNamara’s performance in the middle for the Dragons made him a top-five player in the Spencer Gulf this year.
An extremely skilful and speedy player who makes quick decisions under pressure and can distribute in any way, McNamara has been a weapon in the WFL.
He can also move up front and finish with class in front of goal, booting 17 majors in 17 games to go with his 11 best-player appearances.
Was also a key player in Northern’s SA Country Championships team.
Rhys Egan (Royal Park, Vic)
While it might have been a difficult year for Royal Park, with just five wins, Egan showed plenty of promise with 13 appearances in the best. Also kicked 11 goals in the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition.
Tanner Lovell (Geelong West, Vic)
With the Giants losing their best midfielder in Baxter Mensch, Lovell is expected to step up and take the reigns for Geelong West.
Lovell had a fantastic 2022 campaign, earning a reputation as one of the league’s best ball winners, averaging 28.8 touches per contest.
He should move into an inside midfield role to fill the void left by Mensch, and will be an integral member of the Giants’ march towards finals football
Tyler Cornish (Palm Beach Currumbin, Qld)
Team of the Year member Cornish received 12 B&F votes in the QAFL competition.
He also got nine best player votes throughout the season to underline his consistency.
Shaun Atley (Rochester, Vic)
Played just 12 games throughout the Goulburn Valley season but made his presence felt when he was there. Named in the best 10 times.
Luke Wharton (Belconnen, NSW/ACT)
A versatile player who has been named in the team of the year multiple times, as well as claiming this year’s Mulrooney Medal.
A local junior who has spent time in the SANFL. At home at half back, but can move into the midfield.
Will Fletcher (Sherwood, Qld)
Fletcher was a standout for Sherwood, so much so he earned a spot in the QAFL Team of the Year.
He also received nine B&F votes, and 12 best player votes.
Jack Robertson (Buninyong, Vic)
One of the key pillars in defence for the Bombers who has now played more than 150 games for the club in the Central Highlands competition.
Only missed one game this season for the team.
Blake Erickson (Broadbeach, Qld)
Team of the Year member Erickson finished the 2022 season with 15 B&F votes and five ‘best player’ votes.
Nicky Poulson (Ali Curung, NT)
Clever on-baller who has become an institution in the Tennant Creek Barkly League.
Won the league’s best and fairest award this season in another example of his class and consistency.
Sam Baker (Barwon Heads, Vic)
Finished the Bellarine season with individual success and team success. He came equal-second in the league medal while the Seagulls claimed a remarkable premiership.
Will Green (Learmonth, Vic)
After moving from Waubra to Learmonth in the off-season, the talented junior continued to impress in the Central Highlands competition.
He kicked 10 goals in 16 games and has been among the best in 11 games this season.
Todd Finco (Springbank, Vic)
Capable of playing forward and in the midfield, Finco averaged two goals a game to be a pivotal part of the team in the Central Highlands competition.
Finco has played almost 40 games for the club now and was a former Footscray player in the VFL.
Thomas Gorey (South Alice Springs, NT)
A goalkicking forward who kicked the most majors in the Central Australian Football League this year.
Can take a big mark on the lead or in a pack and his pace, safe hands and big appetite for goals makes him a player to watch.
Won the league goalkicking with 57 goals in a season where his side were the best performed in the home and away.
Dylan Aldridge (Proprietary/Risdon, SA)
Aldridge has put together a fantastic season for the Lions while also playing two SANFL league games for Port Adelaide.
Arriving from PINT in the NT during the off-season, Aldridge has been a force through the middle and up front in the Spencer Gulf Football League.
With a big tank and handy explosiveness to boot, Aldridge has also managed to hit the scoreboard consistently, kicking 54 majors in 16 games to go along with nine best-player mentions.
Also took part in the SA Country Championships this year.
Kade Klemke (Queanbeyan, NSW/ACT)
Was an ex-Essendon draft pick and has a wealth of higher level experience in the backline but can push forward as well.
His class puts him right up among the best players in the Canberra competition.
Flynn Stevenson (Dunnstown, Vic)
Stevenson is a big-bodied midfielder who excelled this season with his speed and penetrating kicks into the forward line in the Central Highlands competition.
Across 16 games, he’s been named in the best players in half of them.
Brady Jones (Huonville Lions, Tas)
The former Clarence captain and multiple time best fairest winner has been one of the Southern Football League’s most dominant players since joining the Lions in 2021.
The helmet-wearing bull is a contested beast while also possessing a beautiful right boot used to pick teams apart on the outside.
With injuries to many of his Lions teammates this season, Jones was at times a one-man band in the Lions midfield in 2022.
Lachie Patten (Bell Park, Vic)
While the Dragons did not enjoy a successful GFL 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.
Alex Morgan (Brinkworth Spalding Redhill, SA)
Morgan’s performance as an onballer who can move up the ground and boot goals has been huge for BSR this season.
The Tigers star is an athletic and skilful player who works tirelessly around and ahead of the contest to impact the game for his side.
Has 30 goals and 10 best-player nods in 17 games and finished runner-up in the Northern Areas Football Association Mail Medal.
Jacob Hennessy (Figtree, NSW/ACT)
Is the captain of a powerhouse Figree team for a reason.
A dual winner of the Turnbridge Medal. A ruck rover who leads by example both on and off the field.
Jack Gleeson (Lindisfarne, Tas)
The controversial footballer was without doubt one of the best footballers in the state playing outside of the TSL.
Since making the move to the Two Blues in 2020 the former Clarence best and fairest winner has dominated the – Southern Football League with his ability to continually find the footy and use it well.
After another stellar season, in which he kicked 27 goals in 12 matches as a midfielder, Gleeson made headlines after he was deregistered for life for a sling tackle suspension which put him over the career suspension limit of 15 games.
While Gleeson cannot play football again his career’s work to the age of 29 has him firmly on the list.
Jack Blood (St Mary’s, Vic)
After a three-year wait, the inspirational Saint got to lift the GFL premiership cup this season.
Blood has been one of the most consistent St Mary’s players this year, 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 exceeded 30 touches twice.
He also averaged 5.2 tackles per game and kicked nine goals for the year.
Josh Carlin (Katherine Camels, NT)
The Camels forward is an important target for midfield players running down the ground with his ability to take a mark in the air or close to the ground.
Can win the contested ball and is an efficient finisher in front of goals in the Big Rivers Football League.
Mitch Patten (Leopold, Vic)
The crafty medium forward is a difficult match up in all areas of the ground, and his goal tally for the GFL season proved it.
Patten slotted 64 goals in 22 games 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.
Baxter Mensch (Broadbeach, Qld)
The new Broadbeach Cats midfielder had a strong campaign in his first GFL season for the Giants in 2022, 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.
Nick Dixon (Old Geelong FC, Vic)
The North Shore co-coach of 2022 had leather poisoning seemingly every weekend, such was the manner of his ability to accumulate possessions in the GFL.
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.
The Seagulls struggled to find consistency outside of Dixon, only winning five games for the year. Made the move to Old Geelong for 2023.
Jaye Bowden (St. Virgil’s, Tas)
Bowden has dominated Tassie football for more than a decade and holds claim to one of the best resumes you’ll see.
After racking up numerous awards and over 200 games for Glenorchy, Bowden now dominates in the yellow and blue of St Virgil’s who the star forward has helped transform from cellar dwellers to premiership contenders in the Old Scholars Football Association.
After winning the Peter Fitzgerald Medal as the best and fairest player in the Old Scholars competition in 2021, Bowden has had another outstanding season for the Saints, having kicked 59 goals in 13 games despite playing in a number of positions.
Zak Wilson (Narooma, NSW/ACT)
Took home the league award for best and fairest for 2022, going along with a premiership for the Lions.
A player that has risen through the grades and Narooma is blessed with his ability.
Darcy Lang (Colac, Vic)
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.
Dominic Forbes (South Alice Springs. NT)
Rated by many as the best full back in the Central Australian Football League competition.
Forbes plays close to his opponent while being capable of the big mark and long clearing kick that earmarks the key defensive role.
Josh Green (Lindisfarne, Tas)
After joining the Two Blues from Clarence, the former Brisbane and Essendon small forward has taken no time to establish himself as one of the dominant players the Southern Football League has seen for a number of years.
Through 15 games in the home and away season the crafty small forward kicked a whopping 93 goals at an average of 6.2 per game in what has been one of the best goal kicking seasons seen in the SFL in the past 20 years.
Harry Benson (St Mary’s, Vic)
The St Mary’s midfielder had an almost perfect two months to start the GFL 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, but he still returned in the last two rounds of the home-and-away season.
Marcus Thompson (Leopold, Vic)
In the eyes of the Geelong Advertiser experts, Leopold captain Marcus Thompson is the best player in the GFL.
After taking over the captaincy at the Lions for 2022, Thompson 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.
Charlie Riggs (Mintaro Manoora, SA)
This season’s North Eastern Football League Mail Medalist, Riggs’ impact for MinMan Eagles has been significant.
The club captain is a versatile player who can have an impact as a key at either end of the ground or pinch-hit through the contest.
Has 13 best player nods in his 16 games, was part of the SA Country Championships and was also named captain in the NEFL team of the year.
Marcus Angove (Lockington Bamawm United, Heathcote District, Vic)
Previously a league representative, Angove continues to star for the premiers. As consistent as they come in the competition. Named in the team of the year.
Brent Arho (Nyah Nyah West, Vic)
Averaged more than four goals a season for the Nyah Nyah West this season. This included 11 goals against Tooleybuc Manangatang in round eight. He has now kicked more than 100 goals for the club in three years at Nyah Nyah West.
Ben Barton (Colbinabbin, Heathcote District, Vic)
In his second season at the club, Barton has been brilliant. He immediately caught the eye in the opening six games and went to be named in the best 13 times.
Jake Barrett (Coolamon, NSW/ACT)
Jake might be a familiar name for AFL fans having played for the GWS Giants and Brisbane Lions.
Now at Coolamon, Jake remains an explosive centre and all-round midfielder, winning the Riverina FNL’s Player of the Year award and the Jim Quinn medal.
Chris Down (Mount Pleasant, Heathcote District, Vic)
One of the recruits of the season throughout the Central Victoria region. After crossing from Sandhurst, the dominant ruckman went onto be named in the best on 15 out of a possible 19 games.
Matthew Hamblin (GGGM, NSW/ACT)
At just 19 years of age, those around him think Matt will be moving onto bigger and better things soon.
A dynamic and classy rover, super evasive, great going forward and always looking to score points, and notably was best on ground in the 2022 Grand Final.
Bayden Fallon (White Hills, Heathcote District, Vic)
Arrived at the club from Geelong Amateur and has proven to be a hit at the Demons. A nicely balanced player with 20 goals from 17 matches.
Rhys Free (Cohuna, Central Murray, Vic)
The leading goalscorer in the Central Murray Football League with 78 goals in 18 matches. Has kicked seven goals or more in five games this season. This is Free’s second full season at Cohuna after joining from Rochester at the end of 2019.
Michael Griechen (CTB Bulldogs, Qld)
A player that defines grit, Griechen is a problem for opposing teams.
As tough as a bulldozer when he needs to be, and as slippery as a snake with the ball – Griechen helped transform Centrals’ midfield attack.
He delivers the trash talk in spades, but backs this talk with a motor that doesn’t quit.
Griechen topped the charts by way of disposals (494), tackles (86) and even notched a bag full of goals (25) in the process.
One scintillating season in the Far North done, Griechen will link with Norwood in the Eastern Football Netball League for the 2023 campaign.
Murray Stephenson (Wagga, NSW/ACT)
Stephenson played and coached for the Wagga Tigers in 2022 and made the RFNL Team of the Year, as well as receiving the Jarrod Baker Memorial Trophy.
A centre half back who still contributes well on the attack, Stephenson has one of the best marks in the competition, reads the game well, has a beautiful long kick and moves well for a man standing at around 195cm.
Benjamin Fuller (Balranald, Vic)
The forward has kicked 69 goals in 13 games for the club this year. This includes nine games with five goals or more. Fuller is a stalwart of the club, kicking more than 300 goals in his time at the Kangaroos.
Corey Gregg (Marong, Loddon Valley, Vic)
Caught the eye in his second season with the club to finish equal in the league best and fairest alongside Brandyn Grenfell.
Liam Brandt (Port Douglas Crocs, Qld)
After earning Crathern Medal honours, Brandt didn’t lose his touch in his second season in the Cairns league.
The gun on-baller took another step in the right direction for the Crocs, and despite missing a few sporadic games his impact was undeniable.
It may not have been the statsheet stuffing 2021 season, but Brandt’s decision making is still second-to-none in the competition.
Lachlan Rhook (CTB Bulldogs, Qld)
Departing South Cairns breathed new life into Rhook’s FNQ footballing tenure.
Predominantly playing around half forward, Rhook has made impact plays across the offensive end for Centrals all season long.
Stat-wise, the 24-year-old finds himself in the upper echelon in each of the major categories, notably goals (75), making him one of the best overall players in the competition.
Jason Eagle (Tyntynder, Vic)
The forward has had three games this season where he has kicked more than 10 goals in a game. Eagle kicked 68 goals in 13 games, featuring in the best players in seven of them. Big hauls is not uncommon for Eagle who kicked 123 goals for Irymple in the 2015 season in the Sunraysia Football League.
Darcy Keast (North Cairns Tigers, Qld)
There’s no denying Keast has seen his fair share of entries this season, but the back has been a hard player to beat regardless.
A ball hawk to be sure, Keast’s intercept mark numbers (37) are among the best in the competition.
The 28-year-old Geelong Football Club veteran has helped turn around Norths’ fortunes, single-handedly responsible for trimming the team’s deficits from the 200-point losses of recent years.
Lachlan Michael (Balaklava, SA)
This season’s Mail Medal winner, Michael has put together a sensational year for Balaklava.
The Peckers captain has been a force across half forward for his side, using his elite athleticism and strength to compete tirelessly for the ball in the air and at ground level.
Also boasts brilliant foot skills and has booted 44 goals and tallied 14 best-player mentions in 18 games as he readies to lead the club to a possible premiership this Saturday.
Was selected as vice-captain in the Adelaide Plains FL’s team of the year.
Sam Stening (Collingullie, NSW/ACT)
The centre half forward had the most goals kicked in the Riverina FNL in 2022 at 62 goals scored.
Still a young player with lots to learn, but was a big player for his team this year and is expected to be a very good footballer in years to come.
Zac Straker (Cairns Saints, Qld)
It took a couple of games, but the change in the Saints’ fortunes can largely be attributed to the work of Straker.
The key forward has arguably the best hands in the league this year, taking contested marks like no other.
Straker also boasts one of the surest boots in 2022, totalling 76 goals in the regular season.
The 25-year-old also had quality showings for both the All Stars and NQ teams during their respective clashes.
Lochlan Pett (Lexton, Vic)
One of the rising stars of the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition. Pett played consistent footy all season for a Lexton side who finished sixth on the ladder but were eliminated from premiership contention in the first week of finals.
Tyron Baden (Cobram, Vic)
Enjoyed a fine season in the Murray competition in front of goal with 59 majors from 20 games.
Would be disappointed to only boot one major in his side’s 47-44 grand final defeat to Mulwala.
Jackson Gash (Mulwala, Vic)
A former league best and fairest, Gash has enjoyed another strong season for the Lions with 10 appearances in the best.
Helped his side to grand final success in the Murray competition.
Andrew Lloyd (Murchison Toolamba, Vic)
Has enjoyed a fine first season in the Kyabram District competition with the Hoppers with 27 goals in the regular season.
Lloyd helped beat his former side, Shepparton East, in the preliminary final before Murchison-Toolamba went down 46-36 in the grand final. A rising star.
Trent Baker (Buln Buln, Vic)
Baker has been a picture of consistency for the Lyrebirds this season in the Ellinbank and District competition.
He was again named in the best on ground despite his side’s heartbreaking 57-56 grand final defeat to Neerim South.
Todd Beck (Inverloch-Kongwak, Vic)
A recruit from Drouin at the start of the year, Beck proved himself to be one of the West Gippsland league’s best two-way players. Kicked 19 goals and was named in the best 11 times.
Thomas Cameron (Fish Creek, Vic)
Tied with Ricky Cochrane in the best and fairest for the Mid Gippsland 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.
Connor Galvin (Osborne, NSW/ACT)
Received the WAW Player of the Year award in 2022, Galvin is a lean and athletic, a good runner with a strong mark in him and the boot to match it.
the half forward flank is always reliable, committed to the squad and a natural leader, which have landed him an assistant coach position going into the 2023 season.
Lachlan Bond (Newtown & Chilwell, Vic)
The Eagles key forward started the season on fire, slotting 10 goals in the first two weeks of the Geelong 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, Vic)
Boseley was the leading goal kicker in the key forward category, slotting 50 majors for the Geelong 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.
Tom Jones (Peake, SA)
Finishing equal third in the Mail Medal this season, Jones has been the most dominant ruckman in Mallee football.
Jones consistently gets his hand to the ball first in ruck using his strength and athleticism and brings his midfielders into the game.
The former Glenelg player has seven best-player appearances in his 10 games for Peake this year.
Joel Brett (Golden Square, Vic)
The leading goalkicker in the Bendigo 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.
Luke Barnett (Two Wells, SA)
The former Woodville West Torrens under-18 player has been a force in the Adelaide Plains competition for multiple years.
A Mail medallist last season, Barnett has dominated again this year through the middle for Two Wells.
A strong and explosive player, Barnett has kicked 26 goals and been among the Roosters’ best in six of his 12 games.
Also an important member of Central’s SA Country Championships side this season.
Mitch Chafer (Grovedale, Vic)
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 Geelong league.
Ty Auton (Curra Swans, Qld)
Auton is a fearless footballer who has played in the North Queensland team over the last two years. The Tasmanian native has sublime skills and is of the top footballers in the Townsville league.
His defensive prowess is such that Auton effectively renders his rivals invisible; the downside is he often slips under the radar himself. Those in the know understand Auton’s incredible impact.
Ethan Kwaterski (Hummocks-Watchman, SA)
Selected at centre in the team of the year and also finishing runner-up in this year’s medal count, Kwaterski has again been a star for Hummocks-Watchman Eagles.
An athletic and skilful player with a big tank, Kwaterski remains one of the hardest players to stop in the competition with his ability to win the ball anywhere and distribute with efficiency.
Has 15 goals and 15 best-player appearances in his 16 games this season and also played interleague.
Matt Ling (OHA Ships, Tas)
The strongly built gut-running midfielder is one Old Scholars Football Association’s premier players and after a blistering 2022 campaign finished just two votes off the pace for the Peter Fitzgerald Medal as the best and fairest player.
Ling’s super high work rate and running ability allows the tough midfielder to cover a huge amount of kilometres each game as he works himself into the ground for his side.
Ling was named on ball in the OSFA Team of the Year.
Rohan Baldock (South Burnie, Tas)
Arguably one of Tasmania’s greatest ever goal kickers, the super strong bullocking forward created headlines across Australia in 2016 when he booted an incredible 241 goals in 21 games for South Burnie in the Darwin Football Association – just nine short of breaking the all time Australian record for most goals in a season.
Also shined on the biggest stage, kicking four goals for Burnie in the Dockers successful 2012 grand final team.
Continued his great form this season, booting 142 goals in 18 games – kicked hauls of 16, 10 19, and 14 and didn’t go goalless once this season.
Coby McCarthy (Tongala, Vic)
Brings plenty of x-factor to the footy field with his goal sense. A really classy operator who played an important role for the Blues in the Murray competition.
Lewis McShane (Cobram, Vic)
In a Tigers side full of stars, McShane enjoyed a brilliant season in the Murray league as one of the most dangerous forwards in the competition. He kicked 37 goals during the regular season.
Bailey Boag (Burnie, Tas)
At just 23, Boag is widely regarded as one of the best community footballers in the state. Already a three-time North West Football League best and fairest winner, the co-captain of Burnie is also a three-time premiership player. Boag featured in the Dockers best in 18 out of 19 games played this season.
“He’s one of the best players in the state,” said Dockers coach Andrew Lee.
“He can play anywhere, he’s a prolific ball winner, really athletic and super competitive.”
Matty Dennis (Bracknell, Tas)
After more than a decade dominating on the mainland the 201cm ruckman has been a colossus for Bracknell in the Northern Tasmanian Football Association over the past two seasons.
The superb ruckman had another standout season for the Redlegs in which he kicked 41 goals in 19 games to finish runner up in the premier men’s MVP award.
While Dennis has only displayed his talents in the state for past two seasons, his work on the mainland over a long period of time warrants a solid placing on the list.
Playing for Bundoora in the Northern Football League in Victoria, Dennis dominated the last decade like no other.
George Burbury (Hutchins, Tas)
Burbury is a freakish athlete blessed with athleticism and skill and has proven to be a level above the Old Scholars competition with a host of dominant performances in the past 24 months.
Burbury was second in the Peter Fitzgerald Medal count and over the past three seasons has been a nightmare for opposition coaches with his ability to play anywhere.
In 2022 Burbury played predominantly down back for the Lions where his ability to intercept the footy and turn defence into attack was a huge weapon for the Old Boys.
Abraham Andrews (Arnhem Crows, NT)
A key defender where his work at centre half-back has made him a colossus at the Crows
His side has been regular Big Rivers Football League finalists in recent years and he has been a key contributor to that end.
Damien Bahr-Kelly (Spitfires, NT)
Plays at centre half-forward, one of Australian football’s most difficult roles.
Can rotate through the midfield where his leadership is a big factor.
Announced his retirement after leading the Spitfires to their 17th Barkly Australian Football League flag this season.
Harry Allen (Mallee, Vic)
The 2019 Central Murray best and fairest may have featured in just 12 games this season but he’s still one of the best in the competition.
The midfielder was in the best players nine times for the club, kicking four goals. If he stays at the club next year, he is likely to bring up his 200th game for the club.
Daniel Stafford (Palmerston Magpies/South Alice Springs, NT)
A big marking forward, Stafford’s height and strength in front of goals can unsettle the best defenders when the ball is in dispute.
Looked a more assured presence in front of goal in his second year at the Magpie nest.
Capable of grabbing towering marks or running on to a lead from the midfield, Stafford kicked 21 goals in his nine appearances for Souths.
That was between stints with community premiers Mt Allan where his five goals in the grand final landed him the best on ground medal.
Michaelis McMasters (South Alice Springs, NT)
A smooth running forward-midfielder who can cut opposition sides in the Central Australian Football League to pieces if given any room to move.
Can take a contested mark and can kick goals from in close or a long way out.
Has the footy smarts on both sides of the body and the leg speed to take him away from a chasing opponent.
Daniel Gorry (Federal, NT)
A big marking ruckman-defender who uses his height and footy smarts to bring his running players into the game.
He won the Minahan Medal as the Central Australian Football League’s best and fairest player in further proof of his ability.
Rory O’Driscoll (Pinnaroo, SA)
O’Driscoll can play almost any position and has been dominant in a strong Pinnaroo side this year in the Mallee Football League.
The club captain is a high possession-winner in almost every game he plays and his efficient and decisive disposal allows him to set up play for teammates.
Can also move up the ground and boot goals if needed, tallying 19 majors to go along with 13 best player mentions in 16 games this season.
Damon Folkes (Learmonth, Vic)
Been one of the standouts with the boot in the Central Highlands competition, kicking 64 goals in 16 games.
He finished third in the goalkicking for the competition and kicked more than 10 goals in a game twice during the year.
Folkes played in 2021 for Great Western in the Mininera and District Football League, kicking 70 goals in 11 games before the season ended due to Covid.
Ricky Walsh (Katherine Camels, NT)
A pacy on-baller who clocks up possessions with his ability to find and win the footballer.
A key contributor in the Camels’ title-winning season in the Big Rivers Football League and will be hungry for more success going forward.
Brandon Green (Waubra, Vic)
In his first season at Waubra in the Central Highlands competition, he impressed the club with his contested marking and competitiveness at ground level.
He kicked more than 30 goals for the 2019 premiers.
Cameron Anderson (Harcourt, Vic)
One of the best young guns in the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition.
Came to the Lions midway through last season and didn’t look out of place in a side that claimed the flag with a 58-50 victory over Carisbrook.
Cody Driscoll (Navarre, Vic)
Already a four-time Maryborough Castlemaine District premiership player with the Hoppers, Driscoll returned to the club from Stawell at the start of the season.
He made an immediate impact with 87 goals from 14 games.
Rory Tarlinton (Hermit Park Tigers, Qld)
Tarlinton plays centre half-back, and could be the best intercept marker in the Townsville league.
He’s a very handy ruckman who is part of the leadership group at the club, and is considered an intelligent footballer with great hands and a lot of skill.
Brayden Frost (Harcourt, Vic)
Has been tremendous in the two seasons he’s been back with the Lions and won the Maryborough Castlemaine District’s best and fairest for 2022.
Frost consistently appeared among Harcourt’s better players and helped the side to premiership glory.
Joel Newman (Thuringowa Bulldogs, Qld)
An inside midfielder who is a real bull.
Runs hard all day, takes a lot of hits. Real tough player who is really the engine of the Thuringowa midfield in the Townsville league.
Rarely takes a break, good kick of the footy but generally gets the ball forward. You’d be surprised if Newman didn’t get more than a dozen clearances per game in a game of footy out of the middle and that’s massive in winning a game.
Leo Coates (Crystal Brook, SA)
Coates remains one of the elite forwards in the Mid North after another sensational season with Crystal Brook.
Fast off the mark and with a big tank, Coates is adept at covering ground and providing an option for midfielders to connect with the forwardline.
Can also hit the scoreboard consistently with great finishing ability off either side.
Has 34 goals and eight best-player nods in 17 games and also played SA Country Championships.
Jake Keogh (Trentham, Vic)
One of the most dominant forwards in the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition of the last several years. Broke through for the 100-goal mark in the final game of the home-and-away season against Talbot.
Josh Ponting (Rocherlea, Tas)
A former TSL star with North Launceston, Ponting dominated the Northern Tasmanian Football Association this season with Rocherlea.
The two-time Alastair Lynch Medalist and four-time premiership player featured in his side’s 81-53 grand final loss against Longford.
Darcy Matricardi (Trentham, Vic)
Took home the Maryborough Castlemaine District competition’s Rookie of the Year award after a strong first season for the Saints.
The former Bendigo Pioneer and Northern Territory representative played 13 games and kicked six goals.
Charlie Burrows (Waaia, Vic)
One of the most dominant forwards in his recent seasons in the Picola and District competition, Burrows took his game to another level this season with 91 goals in 18 matches. Booted three goals in his side’s 93-48 grand final victory over Tungamah.
Damian Cupido (Girgarre, Vic)
In his first season as Kangaroos coach in the Kyabram District competition, Cupido was a nightmare for opposition defenders on his way to 105 goals.
He helped guide the Roos to their first finals series since 2001.
Jake Ellery (Strathmerton, Vic)
Crossed from Mathoura at the start of the Picola and District season and picked up where he left off with the Timbercutters.
A classy player with an ability to break any game open.
Chris Schmidt (Eudunda Robertstown, SA)
The former West Adelaide premiership captain has been a gun centre the Saints this season.
A strong midfielder with a big tank who consistently wins his own ball and finds teammates with top drawer foot and hand skills.
Has four goals and 12 best-player nods in 15 games and was also selected in the North Eastern FL team of the year.
Mark Anderson (Wangaratta, Vic)
The best small defender in the Ovens and Murray league who has produced another consistent year.
Daniel Burton (Bacchus Marsh, Vic)
The 2018 league best and fairest had another dominant year in the ruck. He was named as the best ruckman in the Ballarat competition this year despite only playing 11 games.
George Dutton (Peake, SA)
Playing in his first season in the Mallee Football League after arriving from Scotch Old Collegians in the Adelaide Footy League, Dutton has taken out the competition’s best under 19 award and finished runner-up in the Mail Medal.
Despite being small in stature, Dutton remains a strong midfielder who works tirelessly to win clearances in the middle.
Has nine goals and nine best-player mentions in 13 appearances for Peake and also won the Leighton Huxtable Medal for the best Mallee interleague player.
James Lukich (Waubra, Vic)
Lukich is a big game player who dominated in the midfield this year in the
Central Highlands competition.
He also added 27 goals in a valuable contribution to the forward line.
Nathan Brown (Karoonda, SA)
Karoonda’s playing-coach has yet again been a clear standout in the middle this season.
The 2019 and 2021 Mail Medallist is a strong and reliable clearance player who works hard around the ground and is dangerous when resting up front.
The former interleague and zone captain has 10 goals and 10 best-player mentions in 10 appearances for Karoonda and also took part in the Eastern Zone Carnival again this season.
Jack Muirhead (Central Augusta, SA)
A former Madigan Medalist and the runner-up this season, Muirhead’s production remains at a high level for Central Augusta.
The club captain has been elite through the middle for his side, leading by example with strong contested work and brilliant disposal.
One of the best decision-makers in the Spencer Gulf, Muirhead can also move up the ground and kick a goal, slotting him 13 in 17 games to go along with his 14 best-player nods.
Also part of Northern’s SA Country Championships side.
Scott Carey (Swifts, Vic)
Now a three-time league best and fairest after taking out the Dellar Medal for Horsham and District season 2022. Carey gave up the Swifts coaching job at the start of the season.
Steven Jackson (Weeroona Bay, SA)
Last season’s Jim Hewitson Medalist in the Whyalla Football League, Jackson has put together another outstanding year at Weeroona Bay.
A star on the ball, Jackson’s ability to win disposal and explode from the contest is second to none, and he can hit any target with either foot.
Has tallied nine goals and nine best player mentions in his 15 games for the Tigers this year and also took part in the SA Country Championships.
Kris Bextream (Barooga, Vic)
Despite the Hawks finishing in the bottom half of the ladder, Bextream cemented his place as one of the rising stars of the Murray competition. He appeared in the best on 14 occasions.
Josh Studham (Hummocks-Watchman, SA)
The star full forward of the Adelaide Plains competition, Studham leads all goalkickers in 2022.
Studham is a strong forward who is quick on the lead and can cleanly take delivery on the ground or in the air.
He is also a reliable finisher, booting 59 majors in his 16 games to go along with six best-player nods.
Also played interleague this year.
Khyle Forde (Dunnstown, Vic)
The Dunnstown ruckman is a strong running player who covers the ground really well and is a contested marking powerhouse.
Ford finished second by three votes to Skipton’s Sam Willian for the best and fairest in the CHFL this season.
James Boyer (Congupna, Vic)
The former Murray Bushranger put together an impressive Murray league season together for the Road. Kicked 15 goals and was named in the best 14 times.
Caleb Edmead (Two Wells, SA)
Selected as the captain of the Adelaide Plains league’s team of the year, Edmead has had a top drawer 2022.
Trailing only Josh Studham for total goals this year, Edmead’s ability to win aerial contests up front and boot bags is almost second to none.
Has 57 goals and 10 best-player mentions in 17 games for the Roosters and also played SA Country Championships.
Jai Hayward (Omeo-Benambra, Vic)
Won the best and fairest in the Omeo District Football League after a stellar season. Hayward was in the best players in three quarters of his matches this year. He also averaged more than a goal a game.
Angus Judd (Hamley Bridge, SA)
Another star along the flanks, Judd is the best run-and-carry player in the Adelaide Plains FL and has been damaging with his booming left boot.
An athletic and speedy player, the Bombers gun has starred yet again this season, setting up teammates with his rebound attacks or hitting the scoreboard.
Has six goals and 13 best-player nods in 15 games and also played in the SA Country Championships.
Gareth Remfrey (Rovers, NT)
The consummate midfielder who does a lot of damage when he gets the football in his hand, courtesy of his creativeness and smart disposal by hand and foot.
Remfrey’s poise when in possession and ability to off-load with precision make him one of Central Australia’s most recognisable footballers.
Mitchell Christensen (Huntly, Heathcote District, Vic)
Won huge praise in the Sunraysia league last season before crossing to the Hawks. Went from strength-to-strength and showed his best despite being limited to 14 games. Was named in the team of the year.
Liam Newton (Burra Boobrowie Hallettt, SA)
One of the best half-backs in the Mid North, Newton is one of the most dangerous defenders in the North Eastern Football League.
The BBH star is consistently a standout for his side, quelling opposition attacks and hurting opponents with his run and carry while remaining strong in the air and at ground level.
Has 11 best-player nods and two goals in his 14 games this year and finished third in the medal.
Josh Domaille (Woorinen, Vic)
The Woorinen player has played every game all season so far for the club, including the two finals for the Tigers. The midfielder featured in the best players in 13 out of 18 games, including both finals. Domaille has played more than 100 games for the club since making his debut for the Tigers in 2015.
Henry Slade (Orroroo, SA)
Slade’s ability as a backman makes him a premier defender in the Northern Areas FA and in the Mid North region.
Often tallies multiple intercept marks a game and is a damaging user out of the defensive half, setting up his team for successful rebound attacks and cutting the opposition open.
Has nine best-player nominations in 18 games and also played SA Country Championships.
Lachlan Cassidy (Sebastopol, Vic)
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, helped Sebastopol make back-to-back Ballarat grand finals.
Kane Bowley (Broughton Munoora, SA)
Bowley’s work at centre has again been a catalyst for Broughton Munoora’s success this season.
A strong midfielder with a damaging boot, the vice-captain of the team of the year has tallied 13 goals and 11 best-player appearances in 11 games.
Was also an interleague player this year.
Daniel Acres (Kalannie, WA)
The two-game West Coast Eagles player from 2019 continues to be a star at both club and rep level.
Lining up in the Central Wheatbelt Football League, the 28-year-old won a spot in the New Holland State Country team as well as clinching grand final glory against Koorda.
Will Pratt (Blyth-Snowtown, SA)
Blyth-Snowtown’s captain has again been a force in the ruck for his side in 2022.
A strong player who wins the footy in the contest and feeds possession to his midfielders with brilliant tap work, Pratt has two goals and 10 best-player mentions in 12 games.
Was also a team of the year member and a player at the SA Country Championships.
Luke Bairstow (Lake Grace/ Pingrup, WA)
Another recognised star of the Ongerup Football Association, Bairstow earned a spot in the WA Country team in 2022.
Despite his strong campaign he couldn’t help Lake Grace/Pingrup over the line in the grand final, losing 82-62 to Gnowangerup.
Kallis Freer (Broughton Mundoora, SA)
The NAFA Mail Medalist this season, Freer remains a premier onballer in the Mid North.
The BMFC star and former North Adelaide player is a machine in the contest and wins countless clearances for his side while also finding teammates with elite disposal.
Has three goals and 12 best-player mentions in 12 games.
Jarrod Rodgers (Buninyong, Vic)
A stalwart of the club, bringing up his 200th game this year, Rodgers was one of the leaders for the Central Highlands club in 2022.
He played 14 games and was named in the best players for Buninyong in 10 of those matches.
Shane Ballantyne (Southern Flinders, SA)
Ballantyne has had another outstanding year for Southern Flinders and in the SA Country Championships.
A strong and athletic half-forward who uses the ball efficiently on either side of his body.
Has no issue taking a big contested mark and finishing in front of goal from any angle or setting up teammates, with 35 goals to go along with 13 best-player appearances in 17 club games.
Was named in the team of the SA Country Championships, playing against WA Country, and was also named captain of the NAFA team of the year.
Adam Cockie (Moora, WA)
Very much a veteran these days at 33, Cockie has done it all in the game but continues to shine.
The 2008 Best & Fairest winner for Subiaco got a nod for the New Holland State Country team thanks to his efforts for Moora in the Central Midlands Coastal Football League.
Steve Staunton (Springbank, Vic)
Staunton knows where the goals are, averaging more than four a game since he’s been with the club in the Central Highlands competition.
The forward kicked 66 goals this season in 12 matches to be second in the goalkicking for the competition.
In five of those matches, he kicked more than six goals for the league runners-up.
Matt Rogers (Cunderdin, WA)
The stalwart did it all in 2022: He booted a goal and was named among the best on ground in Cunderdin’s 88-43 grand final win over Kellerberrin/Tammin in the Avon Football Association.
The 33-year-old, who kicked 34 goals in 14 league games, also played for Western Australia in the Country Football Championships against South Australia.
Corey Davey (Solomontown, SA)
This season’s SGFL Madigan Medalist has been a weapon for Solomontown.
A former key position player for Adelaide in the SANFL, Davey has excelled in the middle for the Cats and also has the ability to have an impact in the forwardline.
Davey is a tall player with elite athletic ability and consistent skills on either side of his body, tallying 13 best player appearances in 18 games while also kicking 47 goals.
Was a key part of Northern’s SA Country Championships side.
Jack Exell (Violet Town, Vic)
Enjoyed a standout year in his first season with the Towners, going on to kick a Kyabram District 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. Previously played for Stanhope in the same competition.
Todd Gallagher (Deniliquin Rams, Vic)
Missed the middle part of the Murray season but when he was on the field he was a strong influence for the Rams. Booted 45 goals in 11 games.
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