Bombers utility Toutai Havea nabs Matthew Richardson Medal

LAUDERDALE utility Toutai Havea has won the Matthew Richardson Medal as the TSL’s best young player.

Lauderdale’s Toutai Havea with his Matthew Richardson Medal. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

LAUDERDALE utility Toutai Havea has won the Matthew Richardson Medal as the TSL’s best young player.

Havea, who was born in Tonga and didn’t start playing football until two years ago, was judged as the best player in the State League this season who fitted the medal’s criteria: the player must be under 23, have played less than 20 games at the start of the season, and have played no more than two years of senior football.

After making his debut last year, the 19-year-old has established himself as a key pillar for the Bombers this season, using his strong vertical leap and powerful kick to shine in a variety of positions on the ground.

“I’ve been playing hard all year and to get this medal it’s really good,” Havea said.

“I was very happy ... I didn’t believe it [that he had won the award]. I’m very grateful to get this.”

The award is named after Tasmanian and Richmond great Matthew Richardson.

Havea has hopes of one day playing in the AFL.