The impressive efforts of Cale Hooker as both a forward and a defender in 2018 has the versatile Bomber in contention for his second Crichton Medal.

Hooker is clearly one of the side’s most important players, crucially being employed at either end of the ground whenever the team needs a lift, and that was clearly the case this year.

Late in the season, the 29-year-old almost lifted the Bombers over the line against both Hawthorn and Richmond when he journeyed into attack.

He also played a crucial role forward in round one, booting four goals, before heading back to his origins in defence to great effect throughout much of the year.

AFL StatsPro lists Hooker as ‘elite’ in a number of categories including disposals, disposal efficiency, rebound 50s, marks, intercept marks and spoils, confirming his position in the top echelon of the league’s key-position players.

After securing the prestigious award in 2015, he is sure to be among the highest vote-getters again this year.

BEST PERFORMANCE – Round nine v Geelong
Hooker completely controlled the Country Game this year, leading the Bombers to an underdog victory over the Cats to kick off what was to be an impressive patch of form for the remainder of the year. He plucked an impressive 11 marks (four contested) in the match as he repeatedly quashed Geelong’s scoring opportunities with textbook confidence and composure. Hooker also finished with 21 disposals, 13 contested possessions and six on-percenters in a complete key-defender performance. His efforts were recognised by the match’s head coaches, with Hooker polling a maximum 10 AFLCA Coaches Votes for the game.

SEASON AVERAGES
Disposals – 16.9
Marks – 7
One-percenters – 4.7
Contested possessions – 7

The Crichton Medal will be held at Peninsula on Thursday, October 4.

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Keep an eye on essendonfc.com.au for more Crichton Contenders in the lead up to the big night.