As Casey gears up for its annual Best and Fairest awards night, attention turns to the players in the running for the top honours. With a season full of highs and lows, this year's event promises to be a night of reflection, celebration, and recognition of the standout performances that have defined the year.

VFL coach Taylor Whitford shares his thoughts on ten key players who have made a significant impact throughout the season. From emerging talents to seasoned veterans, Whitford's insights provide a deeper understanding of the individual contributions that have shaped the Dees' journey in 2024.

Andy Moniz-Wakefield

"2024 saw Andy assume a new role across half-back. There was a period of adjustment to his new role in that first part of the season, but after a breakout performance against Williamstown in round 6, he was away. He went on to average 26 disposals per VFL game and was rewarded with an AFL debut, playing six AFL games at the back end of the season."

Bailey Laurie

"Bailey was a consistent performer at VFL level this season. His work in and around stoppages made him a damaging player in the league, going on to average 24 disposals, seven tackles, and five clearances per game."

Kai Windsor

"Joining the VFL program this year, Kai played 15 games. This was a brilliant effort, considering some of the limitations he had coming into the pre-season through injury and surgeries over the course of last year. Demonstrating such great attributes, his speed and great ball use, at only 20, we can't wait to see what he can do in the coming years."

Kynan Brown

"Kynan had a brilliant first season at the club, making real strides in his game performance and role understanding at VFL level, being rewarded with AFL opportunities in the back end of the season. Playing through various roles, whether up forward, as a midfielder or on a wing, he averaged 17 possessions and three clearances per match, with the highlight being a massive 27 disposal and 24 tackle game against Frankston in Round 17."

Matthew Jefferson

"Jeffo was able to develop some real consistency in his game in 2024. He had nine games with two or more goals, finishing with 29 goals for the season, and he was 11th in the VFL goal-kicking tally. He was able to show more readily his capacity to take both contested marks and still follow up and be clean on ground level."

Max Gregory

"Off the back of an injury-free and full pre-season, Max would be one of the more improved and reliable players at Casey this season. He was able to tally a career-best 16 VFL games and was tasked with the opposition's most dangerous small forwards each week. We love Max's ability to win contests, but it's his speed and run and carry with the ball that was most exciting."

Mitch White

"What a season Whitey put together. Averaging 23 disposals and five tackles per game, he was so consistent in not only his performance on field each week but his ability to lead and teach our young VFL group."

Roan Steele

"Promoted to co-vice-captain this season, Roan continued to show his quality at the VFL level. After a slower start to the season than he would have liked, a shift to a new role at half-back allowed him to flourish, averaging 20 disposals and five rebound 50's in the games he played there."

Tyler Edwards

"Teddy took some real strides in his game in 2024. Playing in all 18 VFL matches, through a variety of roles, he found his feet both on a wing and was able to get some expose through the midfield."

Will Verrall

"Will had some strong performances within season 2024. He showed the ability to more than match it with more experienced rucks within the competition whilst being able to use his strengths around the ground. His Round 17 game against Frankston, where he amassed 18 disposals alongside 45 hitouts, was a highlight."

As the night unfolds and the accolades are awarded, be sure to join us on our social channels for live updates throughout the evening as we share the excitement and honour the outstanding contributions that have defined our season. Don't miss a moment as we recognise the best and fairest of 2024!