Glenorchy great makes 10th appearance in TSL team of year in his final State League season
Grand final opponents North Launceston and Launceston dominate TSL team of the year selection, which includes a retiring Glenorchy great and seven first timers. SEE THE TEAM >>
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GLENORCHY great Jaye Bowden has signed off on his stellar State League career with a record improving 10th team of the year appearance.
The most decorated player in the competition’s history was named at centre half forward despite playing just seven of the Pies 12 matches in 2020.
However his impact was undeniable, with the gifted utility finishing seventh for contested marks and marks inside 50 and fifth for goals.
It is Bowden’s ninth consecutive the TSL team of the year honour, with 2011 the only season he did not feature (2010 was the first season the concept was introduced).
As expected grand final outfits North Launceston and Launceston dominated selection, providing half of the 22 between them.
Bombers coach Taylor Whitford earned his seventh appearance in eight seasons following another stellar campaign, which saw him finish in the top 10 for 10 different statistical categories.
Whitford was named on a wing after averaging 18.5 disposals, four marks and a goal a game.
His captain Brad Cox-Goodyer earned his sixth appearance on a half forward flank, with the player arguably set to challenge Bowden’s status as the greatest to grace the league first in the competition for inside 50s, second for score involvements, fourth for clearances, sixth for contested disposals and seventh for disposals, kicks and handballs.
Launceston bull Jobi Harper was named captain of the side after a dominant season where he established himself as one of the premier midfielders.
Harper averaged 23 disposals, 4.5 marks, three tackles and almost a goal a game and finished the roster season second for disposals, fourth for kicks, fourth for handballs, second for contested disposals, sixth for marks, sixth for contested marks, first for clearances, first for hard ball gets, sixth for loose ball gets, third for inside 50s, eighth for score assists and fifth for score involvements.
Reliable Lauderdale defender Josh McGuinness, who led the TSL in marks and rebound 50s, was named vice-captain.
Seven players were awarded their first team of the year honours, including Matthew Richardson medallist Oliver Davis, Clarence teammate Ethan Jackson and Tigers excitement machine Elijah Reardon.
Full forward Tyler Carter (Tigers), Lauderdale livewire forward Luke Nelson and Launceston duo Jake Hinds and Jacob Boyd are the others to make their maiden appearances.
Blues playing coach Mitch Thorp was named coach.
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