Devon Smith’s record-breaking inaugural year in the red and black has him among the leading hopes to take home the 2018 Crichton Medal.

The former Giant’s first season for the club was truly remarkable. He exploded onto the scene at The Hangar, immediately impressing with greater opportunities in the midfield.

While his class throughout the middle and in front of goal was a clear weapon throughout the year, it is clear that the best element of Smith’s season was his ferocious tackling.

His 186 tackles – averaging an astonishing 8.45 per game – broke the league’s home and away season record and crushed the previous club record of 153 set by Ben Howlett in 2011. 

He also finished the year with career-high averages for disposals, clearances, contested possessions and rebound 50s to go with his huge total of savage tackles.

Smith also added 17 goals to his name this year – the sixth-highest tally at the club in 2018 – further displaying his enormous impact for his new team.

BEST PERFORMANCE – Round 14 v West Coast
With plenty of brilliant efforts to choose from, it was hard to narrow Smith’s season down to his greatest individual performance. Among many contenders, his cracking game against the Eagles after the bye was perhaps his best. He played a crucial role in the side’s blistering victory, booting three goals and gathering 23 disposals, 10 contested possessions, six rebound 50s and six clearances. An honourable mention goes to Smith’s effort against his former side, when he laid 13 tackles to go with 21 disposals, 12 contested possessions and a goal.

SEASON AVERAGES
Disposals – 22
Tackles – 8.45
Contested possessions – 8.5
Clearances – 3.4

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.