League best by country mile

By Todd Whelan

Darley Football Senior Captain and star midfielder Brett Bewley has capped off a memorable return to the club, where it all began, with a stunning win in the BFL Henderson Medal Best & Fairest count.

Bewley polled in 13 of 16 home and away games to finish on 29 votes, 13 clear of nearest rivals Jack Walker (Melton), Jordy Johnston (East Point) and Lachie George (Redan) who tied for second.

The former Fremantle Docker was considered the top pick to win the time honoured event by many across the competition and didn’t let the ‘judges’ down, recording seven best on ground performances on his way to a deserving runaway result. Bewley put the Medal beyond doubt having led by 10 votes with three rounds still remaining

Bewley thanked his partner Sarah, immediate family, the wider club and the playing group before acknowledging the influence of new coach Dan Jordan.

“DJ helped me fall in love with the game again by allowing me the license to play freely, more the way I want to play,” said Bewley upon receiving his Medal.

The 27-year old said the decsion to return to Darley after his delisting from Fremantle (AFL) in 2021 was made easier with a young family and with the Devils seemingly struggling without a win in 2021.

“I felt like I could bring something, at least give back to the club,” Bewley said.

“(Nick Rodda) Rodd’s and I are pretty good mates so I was able to help get him to come across,” he added.

“And once DJ had signed it was all pretty smooth sailing from there on, and that helped seal the deal.”

Bewley attributed his individual success largely on his impeccable preparation.

Fellow team mates have been quoted saying Bewley prepares like no other – “super impressive”.

Devils new addition Dylan Landt (13 votes) came from the clouds to finish in equal sixth, while Luther Baker (7 votes) was prominent voting in five games.

Williamstown recruit Nick Rodda shared the Tony Lockett Medal honours in his debut season with the club finishing on 56 goals.

Darley finished in fourth place under Dan Jordan in 2022, his first year, up from 11th in 2021. Jordan, the former Essendon Assistant Coach has already signed on for season 2023.