Prespakis claims maiden Cats best and fairest

GEELONG star midfielder Georgie Prespakis has claimed her first club best and fairest at the 2023 Geelong Cats AFLW Best and Fairest event held last night (Saturday, December 9) at GMHBA Stadium.

Prespakis polled 188 votes on the night, while midfield teammate Nina Morrison polled 163 votes to finish runner-up. Amy McDonald finished third in voting with 82 votes.

The 20-year-old impressed in Season 8, averaging 24.2 disposals, 7.2 tackles and 6.6 clearances a game.

She also ranked equal-third in the competition for average clearances (6.6), sixth in contested possessions (13.7), and equal-seventh in ground ball gets (9).

“I just want to thank Dan [Lowther] for your kind words, I can’t thank you enough for putting up with me, particularly from the bench,” Prespakis said during her acceptance speech.

“I’m very thankful, I think you’re a fantastic coach and we’re so lucky to have you, and that goes to all the line coaches. We’re not only connected as a playing group but also as a football club.

“A special thank you to Finchy (Josh Finch) for everything this season, we love you so much and you’re so good for us. You continue to make me a better player and push me, so I’m very grateful.

“To everyone involved at the football club, I love being a part of the Geelong Football Club and I want to play for the Geelong Football Club for as long as possible.

“It’s so exciting knowing what’s to come, and to get a taste of that this season was amazing, and I’ve loved every bit of it.”

Morrison also reached new heights of dominance in the AFLW averaging a career-high 22.9 disposals and 4.8 clearances, moving into the inside-mid fold this season. Morrison also made her presence known up front with six goals.

McDonald, a three-time Cats Best and Fairest winner, also consolidated her reputation as one of the elite midfielders of the competition, playing a pivotal role among the midfield threat that is Morrison, Prespakis and Darcy Moloney.

McDonald finished 2023 averaging 22.7 disposals per game, 7.2 tackles and 5.8 clearances a game. She also finished in a tie for second in the AFLW Best and Fairest, which was held last week.

Cats defender Claudia Gunjaca enjoyed a breakthrough season and was recognised accordingly, finishing fourth in the count on 69 votes. Becky Webster finished fifth on 53 votes.

Prespakis was awarded her second-consecutive Fan MVP award, while retiring Cat Renee Garing received the values-based Hoops Award, voted on by players at the conclusion of the season for the player who best demonstrates care for her teammates’ wellbeing, champions the Club’s and team’s values.

Darby’s extraordinary community impact was recognised, claiming her third Carter Family Community Champion award.

Darby continues to play an impactful role off the field by providing a positive impact in the community, particularly through her work in participation, inclusion and as a Pride Ambassador.

Away from the Club, Darby has been a major supporter of the junior girls’ football teams at Surf Coast Suns and Armstrong Creek football clubs.

Here is the top 10 breakdown of the 2023 Geelong Cats AFLW Best and Fairest Top 10:

1. Georgie Prespakis – 188 votes
2. Nina Morrison – 163 votes
3. Amy McDonald – 82 votes
4. Claudia Gunjaca – 69 votes
5. Becky Webster – 53 votes
6. Jackie Parry – 50 votes
7. Aishling Moloney – 34 votes
8. Chloe Scheer – 23 votes
9. Chantel Emonson – 21 votes
10. Meghan McDonald – 19 votes

How does the Voting system work?

At the completion of each AFLW match, the senior coach awarded a 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rating for the five best players by his estimation. The three AFLW line coaches were also required to award a 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rating each to the best five players by their estimation. These ratings are then combined, with 20 votes being the maximum number any player can receive for an AFLW Round.