It’s that time of the year again.
On Friday night, Collingwood’s best and fairest player from the 2019 AFL season will be awarded the E.W. Copeland Trophy.
Here are some of the leading contenders (in alphabetical order):
Jack Crisp
The 26-year-old enjoyed an outstanding season, averaging almost 26 disposals per game while splitting his time between half-back and the midfield. Showed great line-breaking abilities when playing down back, winning plenty of territory for his team. Finished fourth in the Copeland Trophy last year.
Brodie Grundy
Finished in a tie with Steele Sidebottom in last year's Copeland count. Enjoyed a brilliant 2019 season in the ruck, which was recognised by the umpires who awarded him 23 votes in the Brownlow Medal. Won 1023 hit-outs this season at an average of more than 40 per game.
Brayden Maynard
Had a sensational season down back, winning plenty of the ball and shutting down some of the biggest names in the game, including Gary Ablett in the qualifying final win over Geelong. Averaged 19 disposals in his 24 matches in 2019. Also averaged four tackles and four rebound-50s.
Scott Pendlebury
Like a fine wine, the Pies' inspirational skipper just keeps getting better. Averaged over 27 disposals per game during the recently completed season. Also kicked 12 goals. Won his third Anzac Medal after the win over Essendon, was selected in the All Australian team for the sixth time and polled 14 votes in the Brownlow Medal. Finished third in last year's Copeland count. Has already won five Copeland Trophies and would become just the second player (Nathan Buckley is the other one) to win six of them.
Steele Sidebottom
Has won the past two Copeland Trophies, having tied with Grundy last season. Featured in 23 of Collingwood's 24 games this season and averaged 26 disposals per match. Recently polled seven votes in the Brownlow Medal.
Adam Treloar
Was among the Pies' most consistent performers in the midfield in 2019, averaging 33 disposals, six clearances, four inside-50s and five tackles per game. Won the Neale Daniher Medal after being voted best afield in the Queen's Birthday game against Melbourne. Recently polled 18 votes in the Brownlow Medal, to be Collingwood's second-highest finisher behind Grundy. Finished third in the Copeland count in 2017.