AFLW’s Most Coveted Title Up for Grabs! Meet the Top Contenders for the Best and Fairest Award – Who Will Emerge Victorious in This Nail-Biting Showdown?

Melbourne’s pinnacle event for the 2023 NAB AFLW season, the best and fairest awards night, is scheduled for Saturday, December 9. As the year concludes, a review of standout performers for the Demons provides insights into potential contenders for the prestigious club honor.

Tahlia Gillard:
In her third season at the elite level, Tahlia Gillard has emerged as a defensive stalwart, showcasing consistent improvement. Her ability to thwart top forwards is evident in impressive statistics, averaging 5.6 intercepts and 5.2 spoils. Gillard’s stellar performances earned her a spot in the All-Australian squad.

Tyla Hanks:
As vice-captain, Tyla Hanks has been a constant force, leveraging her football intelligence, natural talent, and polished skills to establish herself among the league’s premier midfielders. Setting new statistical benchmarks, Hanks averaged a career-high 21.7 disposals, 5.6 clearances, 4.4 score involvements, and 3.7 inside 50s. Her remarkable season garnered 12 votes in the league’s best and fairest count.

Shelley Heath:
Shelley Heath, though often flying under the external radar, is celebrated within the club for her versatility, strength, and determination. Excelling in roles across the backline and midfield, Heath’s impact extends to goal-scoring, as seen with her two goals in Round 1.

Kate Hore:
Taking on the role of captain, Kate Hore elevated her game to new heights this season. The crafty forward achieved the milestone of kicking 20 goals in a home-and-away season, making her the leading goal-kicker alongside Eden Zanker. Hore also topped the league in average score involvements with 6.5 per game, securing her a three-time All-Australian forward status and the title of All-Australian captain.

Blaithin Mackin:
In just her second season at the club, Blaithin Mackin’s transition from Gaelic football has been notable. The speedy winger’s natural agility and creative skills have proven valuable, with a standout performance in Round 8 registering 21 disposals, six marks, and four tackles.

Lily Mithen:
A stalwart since the inaugural season, Lily Mithen continues to be a reliable pillar for the Demon lineup. Her energetic and determined play, coupled with versatility, contributed significantly during crucial games. Mithen averaged 16.6 disposals and achieved a career-high total of four goals.

Olivia Purcell:
A fiery midfielder, Olivia Purcell consistently rises to the occasion under pressure. Her competitive spirit is evident in impressive statistics, averaging 21.9 disposals, 4.5 tackles, 4.2 clearances, and a career-high 4.6 score involvements.

Eden Zanker:
Experienced Demon Eden Zanker delivered a career-best campaign in 2023. As a tall forward, Zanker excelled in aerial contests, averaging close to four marks per game. Making history as the first AFLW player to kick 20 goals in a home-and-away season, she shares the league’s leading goal-kicker title with Kate Hore and secured her spot in the inaugural All-Australian selection.