MELBOURNE’S night of nights is fast approaching, with the club set to crown the winner of the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Award on Friday 6 October.
As we prepare to close out the year that was, we’ve taken a look at some of the top-performing Demons of the season and who is in contention to take out the highest club honour.
Christian Petracca
Petracca will be looking to take out his second club best and fairest after another stellar year in the red and blue that saw him earn a fourth All-Australian selection and 26 Brownlow votes. After embracing and executing a utility role for the Demons, Petracca booted 28 goals across his 25 matches, while averaging 27.9 disposals.
Jack Viney
While Viney has always been among Melbourne’s best, this season he’s reminded fans just how powerful he is through the midfield. The vice-captain has pushed his game to a whole new level in 2023, named in the All-Australian squad in addition to collecting a career-high 24 Brownlow votes. A particular standout was his unrelenting determination in the contest and on-field leadership.
Max Gawn
While Gawn missed three games at the beginning of the season, there’s no doubt his star power was an important aspect to Melbourne’s 2023. His experience in the ruck was a consistent point of difference and all while continuing to be a pillar of leadership both on and off the field.
Steven May
A dependable cog in the Demons’ line-up, May continued to lead Melbourne’s formidable defence in 2023. The full-back took on the opposition’s best key forwards each week, while having an impact offensively, averaging 6.5 rebound 50s (the fifth most in the competition).
Tom Sparrow
A Demon who’s been on the rise for quite some time now, Sparrow seemed to truly hit his stride this year, emerging as an influential young leader. Much-like Viney, Sparrow leads with his strength in the contest, while still impacting inside 50, kicking a career-high 11 goals.
Jake Lever
The reliable cowboy in defence, Lever has solidified his name as one of the best interceptors in the competition, sitting in the top five of the league for average intercept possessions (8.3). Alongside May, the experienced backman brings vocal leadership and an unwavering strength aerially.
Angus Brayshaw
After establishing himself as one of the most versatile players last season, Brayshaw once again embraced various roles in 2023. This year saw the gutsy Demon become a commanding presence in the midfield, often inspiring the side in key moments throughout the season.
Trent Rivers
While Rivers has been in the defensive line-up for more than three years now, his 2023 has seen him become a particularly reliable resource down back. The 22-year-old’s quick skills off half-back have been a constant highlight, with the young gun’s ability to remain composed in big moments equally as impressive.
