Adam McPhee capped off his outstanding debut season at Essendon last Wednesday night at the Crichton Medal when he was awarded the Most Courageous player for season 2003. McPhee's aggressive and tough-nut style of play has won him many fans over the course of the season. The 20-year-old was surprised to receive the award and said in his acceptance speech that this year has been his most enjoyable seasons of football, and he can't wait to get out there and do it all again in 2004.

McPhee's acceptance speech:
I didn't expect to get the Most Courageous award, considering we have a player like James Hird who puts his body on the line each week. It is a big thrill to get an award like this. I would like to thank all of the Essendon staff, including Kevin Morris, Rob Shaw, Mark Harvey, Kevin Sheedy and Adrian Dodoro. I remember speaking to him half-way through the 2002 year and I wasn't sure if I wanted to come to Essendon and leave Fremantle. Ever since I have made the move and played for such a great club and met a lot of new guys and been back in my home state with mum and dad, has been great. So I would like to thank Adrian for convincing me to come over.

I would also like to thank the players. It has been one of the most enjoyable years I have had and I would like to continue it. To mum and dad, I would like to thank you - I actually can't thank you enough. I know how hard it was for myself in Perth trying to live by myself when I was only 18 and 19. I went through a pretty tough time before I came back and played with Essendon, so I would like to thank you very, very much. I would also like to congratulate Damian (Cupido) on winning his award (Best First Year Player), he really deserved it. I know how hard it is to come from a different club and try and fit in, so well done. I would also like to congratulate all the other award winners this evening.