PFNL: Who will win the 2017 Ross Elliott Medal?

The medal recognises the leagues best and fairest player across the entire season, and a number of players have thrown their names into the ring this year.

On a team level, the season has played out as an extremely close one.

Pinjarra did not seal the minor premiership until the final round, and the top four was only separated by two games.

The tightness of 2017 echoes down to an individual level, with a huge amount of players in the mix for the medal.

Below are just a few contenders that we think have the potential to poll well in the count.

Played 18 games this year and was in Pinjarra’s best for 13 of them. The standout West Perth recruit has been nothing but successful for the Tigers, leading the way as the side finished first on the ladder. Kerr played predominantly through the middle, but wasn’t shy of getting forward and kicking a bag as he finished with 24 goals, including two hauls of four and one five-goal outing. Should have his name called plenty in the count.

Another recruit making his way back from the WAFL, Haydon played a huge role in South Mandurah’s push to the top four, particularly in their run of eight straight wins earlier in the season. Played 16 games in the regular season with best-on votes in 13 of them. Prolific through the midfield, but will have to contest for votes with Falcons spearhead Brad Holmes, who booted 91 goals on the year. Although it won’t count towards votes, Haydon was also a force in South Mandurah’s elimination final loss to the Demons.

Played a massive role in Baldivis dragging themselves off the canvas after a slow start and has somewhat flown under the radar as a very good player in this league. Has hit the scoreboard in recent weeks with 11 goals in his previous five games, but usually does most of his work around the contest. Might be a bit of a smokey, but should have his name called in a share of Baldivis wins.

The Demons’ best midfielder in the back half of the season, Mason is likely to make a late dash in the vote count, but don’t discount his work early on. The midfielder played in 15 games for the Demons through the regular season, earning his place in their best players in 10 of those clashes. His only problem will be fending off some prolific teammates. Courtney Lakay, Chad Wrigley, Ben Wright, Rhys Bloxsidge – all could steal votes from their mate.

Dunn’s work around the ground stands out when Centrals are in hot form, and fortunately for him, they were in hot form more often than not this year. He played in all 18 games this season, helping Centrals to third spot and booting 30 goals along the way. He’s a bit of a dark horse for this race, having featured in Centrals’ best seven times throughout the year and playing in a team where a number of players could pinch your votes.