Essendon wasted no time holding its best and fairest award, crowning defender Jordan Ridley overnight.
The 21-year-old broke out as an intercept marking defender for the Bombers this year, averaging 18 disposals, seven marks and four rebound 50s per game in 2020.
Outgoing Essendon coach John Worsfold praised Ridley for his efforts across the season.
“This is a season in which Jordan announced himself as a key part of the club’s future and he should be incredibly proud of his commitment, drive and output this year,” Worsfold said on the night.
“Jordan is an unassuming, determined and driven young man who is a wonderful teammate and has commanded the respect of the playing group, and especially fellow defenders. Since he arrived at the club, his work ethic and commitment to get the best out of himself has been obvious to all.
“He has worked closely alongside Michael Hurley and Adam Saad to further understand the game and hone his craft and we know that Jordan continually wants to improve and build his game and at only 21 years of age, there is much more improvement to come for Jordan which is really exciting.
“While this season has been disappointing from a win-loss ratio, we have a very exciting emerging group coming through, and that is reflected in our overall votes with Zach Merrett, Adam Saad, Kyle Langford, Andrew McGrath and Darcy Parish all placing as the top six placegetters behind Jordan.
“Jordan is a key member of this emerging group with a bright future ahead, so it is wonderful to see him being dually rewarded today for his terrific campaign this season.”
He won the Crichton Medal by 25 votes, from Zach Merrett in second and Adam Saad in third.
Merrett and Saad both had consistently strong seasons, despite the rollercoaster that was the Bombers’ 2020.
See the top 10 below:
2020 Crichton Medal – Top 10
- Jordan Ridley (333 votes)
- Zach Merrett (308)
- Adam Saad (292)
- Kyle Langford (281)
- Andrew McGrath (270)
- Darcy Parish (263)
- Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (261)
- Devon Smith (253)
- Will Snelling (247)
- Dylan Shiel (239)
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