For more than ten years, Brent Stanton has been a consistent contributor for the Essendon Football Club.
In 2015, the 29-year-old midfielder proved that he still has what it takes to play on the main stage – stepping up to the plate when the team needed him most.
With many of his teammates sidelined through injury, Stanton was used in a variety of roles – something assistant coach, Mark Harvey, believed showcased Stanton’s value to the team.
“Brent had a really consistent year,” said Harvey.
“We used him in a number of different roles, whether it be on the wing or in a high defender role.
“He played every game and was really invaluable to the team.”
It was in these different roles that Stanton truly excelled.
The midfielder is often on the end of unwarranted criticism, but his hard work on-and-off the field is something that earns him much praise and respect around the Club.
Stanton’s stats in 2015 don’t lie. He’s ranked number two at Essendon for disposals and a top contender for metres gained in the entire AFL.
On several occasions this year, Stanton gathered 30 or more disposals as well as showing both a defensive and offensive side to his game, laying 94 tackles (the fourth most at the club) and sneaking forward to kick nine goals.
The run provided by Stanton was often one of the most important aspects of his game, with his ability to get free, get the ball and move it forward regularly.
“He was a very good creative link up player that was really essential to our mix,” said Harvey.
“I thought he really progressed as a player this year, and he should be happy with his performance.”
Drafted by the club in 2003, Stanton quickly found his way into the side. He played 15 games in his debut season and earned a Rising Star nomination for his round 20 game against the Pies.
In just his second season Stanton finished third in the Crichton Medal and has polled regularly in the top ten ever since.
Although he is yet to sign an extension to play on in 2016, the club (and all the fans) are hopeful that the man who took on the famous number 5 will remain a Bomber next season.
