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The AFL is considering holding an online awards ceremony to name the AFL Women’s best player

The AFLW awards are another victim of the coronavirus crisis, but the Herald Sun can reveal just how the league is considering naming its champion player of 2020.

Erin Phillips claimed her second league best and fairest medal in 2019. Picture: AFL Photos
Erin Phillips claimed her second league best and fairest medal in 2019. Picture: AFL Photos

A virtual awards ceremony could be held to recognise the achievements of AFL Women’s players after their season was cut short due to coronavirus.

The AFLW season was ended without a premier, but the league is determined to name a best and fairest player, rising star and All-Australian team.

YOU DECIDE! 100 games from the past 50 years to choose from: Vote for your favourite by clicking here: Polling closes 8pm, Tuesday

Erin Phillips claimed her second league best and fairest medal in 2019. Picture: AFL Photos
Erin Phillips claimed her second league best and fairest medal in 2019. Picture: AFL Photos

The W Awards were scheduled for April 20 — the Monday night following the Grand Final — but have also been cancelled as the grip of COVID-19 continues to tighten.

But the league is currently investigating the possibility of holding a ceremony — potentially online — in order to laud its stars.

YOU DECIDE! 100 games from the past 50 years to choose from: Vote for your favourite by clicking here: Polling closes 8pm, Tuesday

“While the current situation is a challenge for the entire community, the AFL remains committed to celebrating the achievements of each club and individual following the 2020 NAB AFL Women’s competition,” a spokesman said.

“We are presently working through a range of options to facilitate this.”

An All-Australian squad of 40 players is expected to be announced in coming days.

Madison Prespakis won the rising star award last year, but is considered in contention for this year’s top gong. Picture: AAP Image
Madison Prespakis won the rising star award last year, but is considered in contention for this year’s top gong. Picture: AAP Image

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The league best and fairest count is tipped to be the most tightly-contested in the league’s four seasons, with the likes of North Melbourne star Jasmine Garner, Carlton’s Madison Prespakis, Demon Karen Paxman, Magpie Jaimee Lambert and Fremantle’s Kiara Bowers all considered to be in contention.

Originally published as The AFL is considering holding an online awards ceremony to name the AFL Women’s best player

Original URL: https://www.ntnews.com.au/sport/afl/aflw/the-afl-is-considering-holding-an-online-awards-ceremony-to-name-the-afl-womens-best-player/news-story/dff9e1bd7e5a4d3b558d682dc9f80fed