Southern Saints 2024 Best and Fairest Preview
02/07/2024
The 2024 season was filled with countless memorable moments for the Southern Saints. As we approach the Best and Fairest Night this Saturday, we’ve taken a closer look at the standout season from several Saints stars who are in contention for the Club’s highest honour.
Maddison Torpey
Maddison Torpey had an exceptional 2024 VFLW season with the Southern Saints. Consistently among the best players before injury cut her season short, Torpey averaged an impressive 23.6 hit-outs and 15.4 disposals per game.
Her versatility in both defence and the midfield was crucial, most notably in our round six clash against the Casey Demons, where she had a best-on-ground performance with eight clearances, 29 hit-outs, and one goal.
Her knack for performing under pressure was evident in her consistent ability to take crucial intercept marks, making her one of the most valuable players for the Southern Saints this season.
Charlotte Ryan
An essential part of the lineup, Charlotte Ryan was a force to be reckoned with, managing to feature in all 14 matches for the Saints and remarkably making it two seasons in a row without missing a game.
Primarily playing on the wing she showcased her flexibility as she averaged 18 disposals and 11.6 kicks per match.
Vital in maintaining the team’s competitive edge throughout the season, her standout performances came in round 10 against the Western Bulldogs, where she collected 26 disposals, and in our round 11 victory against Collingwood, where her crucial intercept marking shone with 10.
Georgia Foran
Georgia Foran had a stellar season down back as a formidable defender for the Southern Saints, demonstrating her aerial prowess and penetrating kicking.
Foran’s ability to read the play and her strength in the one-on-one contests were a consistent feature throughout the campaign, making her a key player in 13 matches.
Highlighted by her standout performance against Box Hill in round 8, where her adept kicking skills helped the Saints generate multiple rebound opportunities from the backline – she averaged 10.4 kicks per game.
With an average of 13.5 disposals and 4.2 marks per match, her relentless efforts make her a strong candidate to take home the main award this Saturday night.
Chloe Hunt
As a dynamic key forward, Chloe Hunt electrified the 2024 VFLW season, with her powerful marking and sharpshooter kicking abilities leading the way for the Saints. Playing in all 14 matches, Hunt’s capacity to dominate in the forward line was pivotal in several matches.
Her performance was particularly significant in our final game of the season against the Casey Demons, where she kicked 4.3 goals from just seven kicks. Hunt finished with 18.11 goals for the season and fifth in the Rohenna Young Medal rankings.
A cornerstone of the team’s successes, her outstanding contributions could see her name soar to new heights this weekend.
Winnie Laing
Backing up her phenomenal 2023 Best and Fairest year, Laing delivered another outstanding season for the Saints.
Recording 17.2 disposals, 4.3 tackles, and 8.5 kicks per game, Laing’s ability to win the ball and make a significant impact in contests was a game-changer throughout the season.
With her commanding voice, strategic acumen, and relentless style of play, Laing epitomizes true on-field leadership, firmly establishing herself as a future leader of the Club.
Arguably her most impressive performance for the season came against Collingwood, where her crucial 24 disposals sealed a thrilling three-point victory. Can she go back-to-back? Only time will tell.
No matter who takes home the Best and Fairest award for the Southern Saints in 2024, the winner will undoubtedly be deserving.
There’s still time to grab a ticket and experience the excitement in person this Saturday night. Find out more.
Written by Digby Verlander - Sandringham Football Club Media