AFL Barwon begins award naming refresh

AFL Barwon has officially closed its search for names to bestow upon its individual awards given to players and coaches throughout the season.

The first of various awards to be given new names began last week, when AFL Barwon announced the Geelong Football league Grand Final best on ground medal would be re-named to the Frank Fopiani Medal.

“The AFL Barwon Commission insists that award names in the AFL Barwon region honour those who have made significant, lasting contributions to our community, preserving their legacies for future generations,” AFL Barwon said.

“To ensure these awards reflect the outstanding individuals and their legacies, a formal process for naming awards had been established.”

AFL Barwon says it is current seeking applications for names for the following Football and Netball awards:

– Bellarine Football League Seniors Best on Ground in a Grand Final

– Geelong Football League Seniors Leading Goal Kicker

– Bellarine Football League Seniors Leading Goal Kicker

– Geelong Netball League A Grade Netball Best on Court in a Grand Final

– Bellarine Netball League A Grade Netball Best on Court in a Grand Final

– Geelong Netball League A Grade Netball Best and Fairest

– Bellarine Netball League A Grade Netball Best and Fairest

– Geelong Netball League A Grade Netball Hot Shots

– Bellarine Netball League A Grade Netball Hot Shots

– Senior Netball Coach of the Year

The official application window closed on September 27.

Following the announcement of the Frank Fopiani Medal, AFL Barwon chair Michelle Gerdtz said there was no one more deserving of the honour.|

“Everyone in local football was shocked and saddened by Frank’s recent passing.

“Frank was an amazing footballer but more importantly he was a wonderful person, and his standing in the football community across our region speaks for itself.

“His record as a player in GFL Grand Finals is unrivalled and it is fitting that we recognise the enormous contribution Frank made to our competition.”

AFL Barwon has not cited an announcement date for the remainder of the awards.