Who will the 2017 Syd Barker Medal?
Ahead of the Syd Barker Club Champion Dinner this Friday night, NMFC.com.au looks at the main chances to become North’s best and fairest player.
The event will be streamed live on the club's website and app from 7.30pm EST.
In alphabetical order
Shaun Atley
The Syd Barker Medal rewards consistency and Atley was one of the Roos’ most reliable players in 2017.
He played every game, finished sixth for disposals (385), third for inside 50s (82) and second for goal assists (18).
Atley was also handy around the goals, with 11 for the year.
Ben Brown
One of the most dominant key-forwards in the game, Brown booted an impressive 63 goals for the year.
He took more than double the amount of marks inside 50 (68) as his closest teammate, and was equal-third at the club for goal assists (12).
Ben Cunnington
The club’s leading disposal winner (25.6 a game) and clearance player (7 a game) had another fantastic season as he hopes to replicate his 2014 Syd Barker win.
Shaun Higgins
The forward-turned-midfielder averaged 23.5 disposals (second at club), 5 tackles (third at club), 4 clearances (fourth at club) and almost a goal a game in a terrific season.
He finished second at North in the coaches’ voting behind Ben Brown.
Luke McDonald
Tough and courageous, McDonald had the best year of his career to date.
He averaged 21 touches, 4 inside 50s and 4 tackles a game, also floating forward to boot 8 goals.
Robbie Tarrant
The vice-captain was a pillar in defence in a tough season.
He lead the club for marks (131), was second for one percenters (85) and second for rebound 50s (90).
Tarrant was again been able to limit the influence of the game’s best forwards.
Marley Williams
While he only played 13 games due to injury, Williams made every post a winner at his new club.
He shut down some of the league’s best small-forwards, as well as averaging 17 disposals and 4 rebound 50s.
The limited games will hurt, but Williams certainly had a big impact in his first year.
Jack Ziebell
The skipper was at his inspirational best with several big games, despite playing under duress.
He averaged a touch over 22 possessions (third at club), 5 clearances (second at club) and had 76 inside 50s (fourth at club).
