Intro  

DEFENDER Jake Lever was among the league’s elites, our No.8 secured his first podium place in this year’s Keith “Bluey” Truscott Memorial Trophy.   

The intercept defender led Melbourne’s backline to the lowest points conceded of any team in 2023. 

Averaging 8.3 intercept possessions, Lever ranked second in the league for his aerial ability. 

Season Averages  

Intercept Possessions: 8.2 (Elite) 
Disposals: 14.1 (Above average) 
Intercept marks: 3 (Above average) 
Disposal efficiency: 85.5% (Above average) 
Ground ball gets: 4.1 (Elite)  

Game of the year 

As the Dees took on Hawthorn at the MCG, Lever made the clash his own.  

Recording seven intercept possessions, No.8 made Round 23 a no-fly zone.  

The experienced defender went on to win that week’s Hertz Fans’ Pick. 

Highlight 

When Melbourne welcomed Brisbane to the MCG in Round 18, a clutch Lever play sealed the deal for Melbourne. 

A last-minute goal from Jake Melksham put Melbourne one point up, Brisbane won the next clearance rushing the ball forward.  

Lever stood tall on his opponent, Eric Hipwood, marking the ball on the siren to bring the Dees home by one point.  

Quote 

List manager, Tim Lamb had this to say about Jake Lever, when he re-signed this year. 

“He is an outstanding player and a crucial cog in our defence, as well as an influential leader and mentor to our young players.”  

Off the field  

Outside the footy ground, Lever took to seeing the world.  

Since season 2023 finished, No.8 has found himself in Fiji and Japan seeing what Asia has to offer.