In front of more than 1300 guests at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre this evening, Zaharakis finished the count with 332 votes, ahead of second-placed Brent Stanton who finished with 313 votes, and third-placed Michael Hurley on 292 votes.

In only his third AFL season, Zaharakis stood up to the challenge of leading a young midfield in the absence of some of the side’s more experience campaigners who battled with injury during the course of the season.

The 21-year-old played every game this season, polling votes in 15 of Essendon’s 23 games. It is the first time Zaharakis has won the award.

Zaharakis’ best performance for the year came in Round 8 against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba where he collected 25 disposals, kicked four goals and laid six tackles in a stand out performance. He polled three Brownlow votes for the match.

Essendon coach James Hird said the award was a fitting recognition for Zaharakis’ solid season.

“David has had an outstanding year this season and has developed into a really important player for the team,” Hird said.

“David was able to spend more time through the midfield this year and, to his credit, made the most of every opportunity.

“He has an incredible work ethic and an abundance of talent and to have a Crichton medal to his name after only three seasons at the club is a sign of things to come.”

Zaharakis was drafted to Essendon via selection 23 in the 2008 NAB AFL Draft. Since his debut in 2009, Zaharakis has played 53 games and kicked 57 goals.

Crichton Top 10:
David Zaharakis 332
Brent Stanton 313
Michael Hurley 292
Jobe Watson 270
Heath Hocking 248
Dustin Fletcher 231
Dyson Heppell 226
Stewart Crameri 225
Patrick Ryder 224
Ben Howlett 216