Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 11, 2024 5:08 am GMT
As the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Football Netball League gears up for its prestigious night of awards, all eyes are on the on-ballers competing for the Michelsen Medal, set to take place this Sunday evening at the Bendigo Club in Strathdale. The event, which starts at 6 PM, promises to spotlight the league’s top players as they vie for recognition as the fairest and best in the region’s senior footy. With a track record suggesting that on-ballers and ruckmen often steal the show, this year’s competition is shaping up to be fierce.
Leading Candidates for the Michelsen Medal
Several players have emerged as frontrunners for the Michelsen Medal, particularly from the top teams of the season. Sandhurst’s Lachlan Tardrew is drawing attention after his influential performance throughout the year, particularly following his commitment to the club after a successful stint in the VFL with Collingwood. Tardrew has been acknowledged by the match committee as “best on” in eight games and is expected to collect a significant number of votes.
Additionally, Fergus Greene, who dominated with an impressive 80-goal tally and received the Ron Best Medal, is another key player to watch. Alongside Tardrew, teammates Cobi Maxted, Caleb Connick, and Nick Stagg played critical roles in Sandhurst’s successful regular season, finishing with a strong 14-2 record.
Challengers from Other Clubs
The competition does not stop with Sandhurst. Gisborne’s Braidon Blake, Flynn Lakey, and Brad Bernacki have formed a formidable on-ball trio, leading the Bulldogs to a return to the grand final after missing out last season. Their individual performances are expected to place them among the top contenders for the medal, potentially marking Gisborne’s first win since Scott Walsh in 2012.
Strathfieldsaye has also seen impressive contributions from Daniel Clohesy, Lachlan Gill, and Cooper Jones throughout the season. Their teamwork has propelled the Storm to an 11-5 record, making them serious contenders for the championship and for individual accolades.
The Road Ahead for Other Teams
Golden Square’s season, while ultimately cut short in the semi-finals by Strathfieldsaye, featured standout performances from players like Jordan Rosengren and Kai Daniels. Despite a 10-6 record highlighted by some strong individual performances, the Bulldogs will be looking to build on their success in future seasons.
Eaglehawk’s Noah Wheeler, last year’s Michelsen medallist, will also have teammates vying for accolades, notably co-captains Billy Evans and Joel Mullen, as well as young forward Bailey Ilsley. Their contributions have been vital for the Two Blues, who remain a strong force in the competition.
Focus on Emerging Talents
This season has also given rise to new talent in the league. Castlemaine, under first-year coach Michael Hartley, has displayed marked improvement, with players like captain Bailey Henderson and Rising Star winner Ryan Eyre likely to catch the umpires’ attention through their performances. The Magpies concluded the home-and-away series with a respectable 7-9 record, showcasing the potential for future growth.
Meanwhile, South Bendigo and Kangaroo Flat face challenges with lesser records yet show promise through individual performances. On-ballers Brody Haddow and Anthony Zimmer from South Bendigo have put forth commendable efforts, while Kangaroo Flat’s Luke Ellings and captain Toby Roberts have been key contributors for their side.
Betty Thompson Medal Race
While the Michelsen Medal takes center stage in the footy arena, the competition for the Betty Thompson Medal in A-grade netball is equally robust. This prestigious award, named after a pioneering figure in local netball, has attracted serious contenders this year as well. The vote count for this medal will also be held at the league’s function on Sunday evening, celebrating the best in netball.
The Legacy of the Michelsen Medal
The Michelsen Medal itself has a storied history, with past winners including some of the most revered players in the league. Sandhurst has produced a number of medalists over the decades, reflecting the club’s rich tradition of success. The legacy of previous winners like Greg ‘Diesel’ Williams, who achieved notable success at the AFL level, continues to inspire current athletes.
As the event approaches, excitement builds not just for the awards themselves, but for the celebration of talent and dedication that these players have shown throughout the season. With several players showcasing outstanding skill and sportsmanship, the contenders for both the Michelsen Medal and the Betty Thompson Medal stand ready to step into the spotlight.
This year’s ceremony will celebrate amazing achievements and bring the community together. As the teams get ready for the exciting end of the season, both fans and players are looking forward to what’s coming next.
