The Most Courageous Award on Crichton Medal night is named after Adam Ramanauskas. It goes to a player who puts others before himself and displays personal courage on and off the field.
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Leading contenders
Mark Baguley
Fresh from signing a new contract, Baguley could cap off an impressive week by taking out this award. The tough, uncompromising back pocket was at his best in 2015. The former Frankston Dolphin played all 22 matches and averaged four tackles per game.
Matthew Lloyd says...
“Bags will be one of the favourites again with the year he’s had. He’s one of the most courageous players you could ever want on your half back line. Always backing in with the flight of the ball and he always beats his opponent.”
Zach Merrett
What he lacks in years, the 19 year old makes up for in courage. In his second season he played 17 games. He is one of the best tacklers in the competition and ended the season with the second highest amount of tackles per game at the Club. He spent more time in the middle of the ground and was always willing to put his head over the ball.
Cale Hooker
The West Australian was one of the Bombers best players in defence in the first half of the year, but with injuries to key players he was asked to go forward. He did so to great effect booting 21 goals and leading the Club for marks.
Matthew Lloyd says…
“The courage to be the best defender but then to say I’ll do what the team needs and go to centre half forward or full forward to try and help Joey Daniher and the team... It’s just a real selfless act.”
Heath Hocking
The tough midfielder underwent two separate groin surgeries over the off-season. After a lengthy recovery period, he returned to the side late in the year. In three of his five games he registered five tackles or more and his influence around the stoppages was clear to see. He also kicked three goals against Collingwood to help the side get over the line.
Ben Howlett
Howlett was Essendon's leading tackler, averaging six per game. He started the season with 12 tackles against Sydney and finished the year with 15 tackles in the last fortnight. The West Australian was always prepared to put his body on the line for the side.
