Just over a decade ago, the North Melbourne playing list began a tradition to honour Jason McCartney’s comeback game in 2003.
The McCartney Award recognises the values, strength and courage that the former Roo epitomised to return to the AFL months after suffering horrific burns in the Bali bombings.
The players sign the jumper and nominate the player they believe stands for the jumper. 2013’s winner was Jack Ziebell. He’ll be presenting the award this season and considering his exploits on the field, there is every chance he could become a back-to-back winner.
The Harold Henderson Best Clubman Award is for the best clubman. It is given to the player ‘who typifies everything about unselfishness, has a team-first attitude, goes beyond the call of duty, not just on the field for the 22 players selected each week, but for the whole playing list and club.’
Scott Thompson was the 2013 winner of the award, which has been awarded since 1984.
Henderson was a vital founding member of the North Melbourne Social Club, and had a pavilion named after him at Arden Street until the ground was recently redeveloped.
The Huddle is North’s innovative community arm, and a large part of what it does couldn’t be possible without the efforts of Peter Scanlon.
The Peter Scanlon Community Award recognises his generosity to both the Kangaroos and the community. It’s given to the player who ‘exemplifies the spirit of giving, going the extra mile on numerous occasions, often without recognition, and never expecting fanfare.’
2013’s winner was Scott McMahon.
Friday night’s Syd Barker Medal will be covered with a live chat on NMFC.com.au. Tune in from 7:00pm EST to follow the proceedings, with prizes on offer throughout the evening.
