AFTER an incredibly challenging season, the Demons will recognise the achievements of their players this week.
In true 2020 fashion, Melbourne is preparing to crown the winner of the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy from the team room at its Twin Waters high performance hub.
While the season finished on a sombre note for the ninth placed Dees, the players, staff and family members in Maroochydore will have the chance to reflect on a rollercoaster 11 weeks, before disembarking the hub.
And with a number of awards up for grabs, plenty of the boys will be acknowledged.
The club will present trophies to the best leader, the best young talent, a community ambassador, someone who best displayed the ‘Melbourne Spirit’ and a standout in the eyes of the coaches.
After those proceedings conclude, the top honour will be handed out to Melbourne’s No.1 player for the season.
Take a look at those in the running for the Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott Memorial Trophy:
Max Gawn
Max Gawn, a two-time winner of the award, had another sensational year in the ruck for the Demons.
In his first season as captain, Gawn played 14 games and averaged a competition-high 32.7 hit-outs, proving to be one of the best big men in the league once again.
Ed Langdon
After being recruited to Melbourne in the off-season, Ed Langdon exceeded all expectations during his debut year in the red and blue.
The running wingman didn’t miss a game, impressing with his elite endurance and ability to accumulate possessions with ease.
Steven May
It’s fair to say Steven May’s 2019 season didn’t go to plan.
But the former Gold Coast skipper made up for lost time this year, becoming one of the league’s best key defenders, and arguably Melbourne’s most consistent contributor across 17 games.
Clayton Oliver
At just 23 years of age, Clayton Oliver already has two Best and Fairest trophies to his name.
The hard-at-it onballer was ranked ninth in the competition for disposals and second for contested possessions this season, having a major impact through the centre for his side.
Christian Petracca
Melbourne fans have been waiting for Christian Petracca to have a break-out season since he was selected with pick No.2 in the 2014 National Draft, and this was the year.
Petracca slotted into the Demons’ midfield and was a game changer, averaging 23.5 disposals and 12.7 contested possessions (third in the league), while also hitting the scoreboard with 15 goals.
Jack Viney
Jack Viney, who won this award in 2016, had arguably his most consistent season since.
While he’s been a reliable performer for Melbourne throughout his 135-game career, the vice-captain got the best out of his body this year and took his game to another level, leading by example with his bullish approach.
