Syd Barker: Best 1st Year
This year it's a battle between three - Cam Delaney, Brad McKenzie and Sam Gibson.
This year it's a battle between three - Cam Delaney, Brad McKenzie and Sam Gibson.
In his third year on the Kangaroos' list, Delaney made his debut in Round 2 against the GWS Giants. Playing five games for the season, Delaney was able to settle into the third tall role in the backline. Despite standing at 194 centimetres, the younger Delaney brother is able to play a mobile role and showed glimpses of what he could do in future seasons.
Brad McKenzie was North's first pick in the 2011 National Draft and was the second new Roo in 2012. His debut came in Round 7 against the Western Bulldogs. While McKenzie only had two appearances for the year, both as the substitute, being sent to Utah mid-season with Jack Ziebell is an indicator of the high regard he is held in by the coaching staff.
The favourite for this award Sam Gibson, was also the last of the trio to pull on the blue and white. The 26-year-old’s introduction into the senior side in Round 12 coincided with North's excellent second half of the year. He averaged almost 22 disposals a game in his 13 outings, playing in only three losses.
Who do you think will take out the award, presented by senior coach Brad Scott? Have your say in the comments below.