AFL Brownlow Medal: Everything You Need To Know

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The Brownlow Medal is the most prestigious individual award in the Australian Football League (AFL). Awarded annually to the "fairest and best" player in the league during the home-and-away season, it's a night of high anticipation and celebration. But what exactly makes the Brownlow Medal so special, and how does it all work?

What is the Brownlow Medal?

The Brownlow Medal, officially known as the Charles Brownlow Medal, is awarded to the player adjudged by Australian Football League field umpires to be the fairest and best during the regular season. It's essentially the AFL's equivalent of a league MVP award in other sports.

History of the Brownlow

First awarded in 1924, the Brownlow Medal is named after Charles Brownlow, a former Geelong Football Club player and administrator who played a significant role in the early development of Australian rules football. The medal has a rich history, steeped in tradition, and is one of the most celebrated nights on the AFL calendar. — MMR Vaccine: Debunking Autism Myths

How the Voting Works

After each game of the regular AFL season, the three field umpires (those officiating on the ground) independently award votes to the players they consider to be the best. They allocate three votes to the player they deem best on ground, two votes to the second best, and one vote to the third best. These votes are kept secret until the Brownlow Medal count.

Eligibility

To be eligible to win the Brownlow Medal, a player must not be suspended by the AFL Tribunal during the season. A player who receives a suspension is ineligible, regardless of the severity or length of the suspension. However, players can still receive votes in games where they weren't suspended, even if they were suspended in another match during the season. — Phil Jackson Net Worth: Salary, Career & Investments

The Count

The Brownlow Medal count is a televised event held each year before the AFL Grand Final. The votes from each game are read aloud, and a running tally is kept. It’s a tense and exciting evening, with much speculation and analysis surrounding each vote. The player with the highest number of votes at the end of the count is awarded the Brownlow Medal.

Significance of Winning

Winning the Brownlow Medal is an enormous honor for any AFL player. It signifies not only exceptional talent but also consistent performance and fair play throughout the season. Brownlow Medallists are etched into AFL history, and the award often adds significantly to a player's legacy. — Michael Braugher: News And Updates

Brownlow Curse?

There's a lighthearted superstition known as the "Brownlow Curse," which suggests that winning the Brownlow Medal might negatively impact a player's or their team's performance in the finals series. While purely anecdotal, it adds another layer of intrigue to the Brownlow Medal and the subsequent finals.

Key Takeaways

  • The Brownlow Medal is awarded to the AFL's fairest and best player.
  • Umpires award votes after each game.
  • Suspended players are ineligible.
  • The Brownlow Medal count is a major event.
  • Winning the Brownlow is a career-defining achievement.

The Brownlow Medal remains a central part of the AFL's identity, celebrating the league's best and fairest players. The anticipation, the tradition, and the drama of the count make it a truly special night for the AFL community. Whether you're a seasoned AFL fan or new to the sport, understanding the Brownlow Medal provides a deeper appreciation for the dedication and skill of these incredible athletes.

Stay updated with the latest AFL news and Brownlow Medal updates on the official AFL website