Club captain Dyson Heppell was a truly inspirational leader again in 2019, battling bravely through injury to support his side in any way possible. 

The skipper was sensational in the first half of the year before succumbing to an ongoing foot injury after the bye, missing five of the following 11 games.

When fit, Heppell was firing, and even in the face of adversity late in the season he continued to fight well.

Despite his challenges, the tough midfielder was still able to finish first at the club for average contested possessions (11.7) and average ground ball gets (8.3), second for average disposals (26.3), third for clearances (3.8) and fourth for inside 50s (3.7) – a powerful display of his quality and work ethic. 

KEY STATS

Games: 18

Goals: 4

Average disposals: 26.3

Average contested possessions: 11.7

Average clearances: 3.8

Average inside 50s: 3.7

Dyson Heppell works his way clear of Carlton forward Harry McKay. (Image: AFL Photos)

BEST PERFORMANCE

Heppell was absolutely immense against Carlton in round 11, thriving in the wintry conditions in an ultimate captain’s game.

He showed terrific balance in the contest to keep his feet and repeatedly part the sea in the slop in a classy display.

He racked up a career-best 22 contested possessions to go with 36 disposals, seven clearances, five inside 50s and seven score involvements including two goal assists and a goal. 

MIGHTY MOMENT

While the Bombers’ tough start to the year continued in a narrow loss to St Kilda in round two, Heppell never gave in as he tried to lift his side over the line. 

The best example of his brilliant leadership was a remarkably courageous mark in the final term as the skipper threw caution to the wind, running back with the flight to reach a skied ball with an opponent heading straight for him.

2020 VISION

Provided Heppell’s recovery from post-season surgery goes to plan, he is expected to integrate into main training in early December, which should see him well prepared to hit the ground running in 2020.

An incredibly valuable player, he was still able to replicate his best football in a terrific season this year, and a pain-free season next year could see him show he is still in his prime at the age of 27.