AFL Brownlow Medal: Past Winners & History

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The Brownlow Medal is the most prestigious individual award in the Australian Football League (AFL). Awarded annually to the "fairest and best" player during the regular season, it holds a special place in the history of the sport.

What is the Brownlow Medal?

The Brownlow Medal is awarded to the player who is judged by field umpires to be the fairest and best during the AFL home and away season. Umpires cast their votes after each game, awarding 3 votes to the best player, 2 to the second best, and 1 to the third. The player with the most votes at the end of the season wins the medal.

History and Significance

First awarded in 1924, the Brownlow Medal is named after Charles Brownlow, a former Geelong Football Club player and administrator. Winning the medal is a career highlight for any AFL player, often seen as a testament to skill, consistency, and sportsmanship.

Key Facts About the Brownlow:

  • Eligibility: Players suspended during the season are ineligible to win.
  • Ties: In the event of a tie, the medal is awarded to all tied players.
  • Ceremony: The Brownlow Medal count is a highly anticipated event, broadcast live and attended by players, coaches, and celebrities.

Notable Brownlow Medal Winners

Many legends of the game have won the Brownlow Medal. Here are some notable winners:

  • 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).
  • Graham Teasdale: Holds the record for the most votes in a single season (59 votes in 1977).

Recent Winners

  • 2023: Lachie Neale
  • 2022: Patrick Cripps
  • 2021: Ollie Wines

Brownlow Medal Records and Trivia

  • Most Medals: Four players have won the Brownlow Medal three times: Dick Reynolds, Haydn Bunton Sr., Bob Skilton, and Ian Stewart.
  • Most Votes in a Season: Graham Teasdale's 59 votes in 1977 remains the highest.
  • Clubs with Most Winners: Essendon and South Melbourne/Sydney have the most Brownlow Medalists.

The Brownlow Medal continues to be a celebrated part of the AFL, recognizing the league's best and fairest each year. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the Brownlow Medal count reflect its importance in Australian sporting culture. For more information and updates, stay tuned to official AFL news and sports outlets.