Collingwood’s Nick Daicos has made history by becoming the youngest recipient of the AFL Players’ MVP award in 21 years. At just 22 years old, Daicos has garnered recognition from his peers for his performance throughout the season, marking his first MVP win after coming close in previous years. He is the youngest player to receive the Leigh Matthews Trophy since Nick Riewoldt of St Kilda in 2004.
In a noteworthy development, the AFL Coaches Association announced a tie for their prestigious champion player award between Noah Anderson, captain of the Gold Coast Suns, and Bailey Smith from Geelong. Both players secured an equal total of 103 votes, with each earning nine votes in the final round of the season. This marks a significant milestone for both athletes as they claim the award for the first time.
Anderson showcased his exceptional skills during the Suns’ decisive victory over Essendon, contributing significantly with 34 disposals, 12 clearances, and three goals. His performance was instrumental in clinching a spot in the finals. In contrast, Smith has proven his worth to Geelong after transferring from the Western Bulldogs last off-season, which included a year sidelined by injury. Geelong’s coach, Chris Scott, praised Smith’s competitive spirit and dedication, highlighting his consistent performance throughout the season.
“To be recognised by the coaches with this award in his first season at a new club, after 12 months out of the game with injury, is a real credit to Bailey and the work he has put in,” said Scott.
Looking ahead, Daicos, Anderson, and Smith are all strong contenders for the upcoming Brownlow Medal. The awards ceremony, which is set to take place on the evening of September 23, 2024, will see Daicos as the frontrunner after finishing second in last year’s count. Smith follows closely as the second favourite, while Jordan Dawson, captain of Adelaide, is just ahead of Anderson in the odds.
In an unusual twist, the AFLCA’s best young player award went to Shaun Mannagh, a forward for Geelong who is 28 years old. Mannagh qualified as a mature-aged recruit in his second season in the AFL, finishing with 35 votes, ahead of North Melbourne’s Colby McKercher with 32 votes and West Coast’s Harley Reid with 31 votes.
As the awards season progresses, the spotlight remains on these talented players, whose performances are shaping the future of Australian rules football.
