The annual TAFL Presentation Night was held at Wests League club in Tamworth on Saturday night where 3 Saints palyers took out major gongs. The night opened with the presentation of the Gerry Griffiths Medal for most goals in the season which was taken out by Mick Viney. This was the second time Mick had received the award.
Next on the agenda was the Southern Cross Ten Rising Star Award which is awarded to the best first or second year player in the TAFL. The was awarded to Mick Corcoran who at just 16, has been a vital cog in the Saints lineup in the past couple of seasons His pace across half forward is always a real threat to any team and having him return to the lineup this weekend will no doubt help the Saints' chances in the Major Semi.
The major award on the night was the Tony Gillies Medal for the Best and Fairest in the league. Last year, Peter Heath became the first Saint to hold the award, and coming into this year's vote, several Saints were a chance of polling well. It became apparent very early that Corey Wheeler was in the sights of the umpires, polling 3 best on ground performances in the Saints first 4 games. Despite not polling through the middle stages of the count, Wheeler was still only 5 votes adrift of the leaders heading into the final 5 rounds. Another 2 best on ground performances saw him take a tie of the lead heading into the last round with Gavin Knee of the Swans. Needing to poll in the final match to take the trophy, Wheeler impressed the umpires enough to be awarded two points and take the 2010 Tony Gillies Medal.
It was one of the most successful nights for the Saints at the TAFL Awards and a true demonstration of the hard work the players have put in this year.
Last Modified on 23/08/2010 09:32