AFL Brownlow Medal: Everything You Need To Know

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The Brownlow Medal is the Australian Football League's (AFL) most prestigious individual award, presented annually to the "fairest and best" player in the competition during the home and away season.

What is the Brownlow Medal?

The Brownlow Medal is awarded to the player who, in the opinion of the umpires, is the fairest and best player during the AFL home and away season. Each umpire votes for the three best players after each game by awarding three votes, two votes, and one vote. The player with the most votes at the end of the season wins the medal.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Brownlow Medal, a player must:

  • Play at least one game during the home and away season.
  • Not be suspended by the AFL Tribunal during the season. A player who is suspended is ineligible, regardless of the severity or timing of the suspension.

How are the Votes Counted?

Umpires award votes after each match, with three votes going to the player they regard as best on ground, two votes to the second best, and one vote to the third best. These votes are tallied throughout the season, but kept secret until the Brownlow Medal ceremony.

Tiebreakers

In the event of a tie, the players who are tied are all awarded a Brownlow Medal. This has occurred several times in the history of the award.

History of the Brownlow Medal

The Brownlow Medal was first awarded in 1924 and is named after Charles Brownlow, a former Geelong Football Club player and administrator. Brownlow played a significant role in the early development of Australian Rules Football.

Notable Winners

Some of the most notable Brownlow Medal winners include:

  • Dick Reynolds: Won the medal three times (1934, 1937, 1938).
  • Haydn Bunton Sr.: Also a three-time winner (1931, 1932, 1935).
  • Bob Skilton: Another three-time winner (1959, 1963, 1968).
  • Michael Voss: (1996), jointly won with James Hird (Essendon) (1996) & Greg Williams (Carlton) (1994).

The Brownlow Medal Ceremony

The Brownlow Medal ceremony is a highly anticipated event on the AFL calendar. It is typically held on the Monday before the AFL Grand Final. Players, coaches, and other members of the AFL community attend the ceremony, which is broadcast live on television.

Significance of the Award

Winning the Brownlow Medal is considered one of the highest honors in Australian Rules Football. It recognizes not only exceptional skill and performance but also fairness and sportsmanship. The medal is a testament to a player's dedication, talent, and contribution to their team.

Conclusion

The AFL Brownlow Medal remains a symbol of excellence and integrity in Australian Rules Football. Each year, fans eagerly await the announcement of the winner, celebrating the achievements of the player deemed the fairest and best in the league. The Brownlow is more than just an award; it's a celebration of the sport's values and the dedication of its athletes.