Groomed as a forward by the club since he arrived via overall pick eight in the 2006 AFL Draft, Ben Reid revitalised his game down back in 2009 which culminated in finishing runner-up in the VFL’s best-and-fairest.
His two senior appearances consisted of the utility playing as a forward target for the Magpies while it was his work down back in the VFL which earned the praises of Gavin Brown (see below).
Reid averaged 20.4 possessions in his 20 matches and relished a running half-back role which showcased his surprising agility for his 195-centimetre frame.
The 20-year-old enjoyed a purple patch at the end of the year averaging 26 disposals in his final five matches and was named in the side’s best in each of the three finals matches.
2009 highlights
Round 19 v Frankston: The VFL Magpies held Frankston to two goals for the first half with Reid providing run through the back half to set up his teammates up forward. Reid dominated the first half recording 18 possessions including several goal assists.
Semi final v Williamstown: Used his height and strength to hold Williamstown forward Jason Cloke to one goal. Reid managed to play a negating role while contributing offensively with 27 possessions and one goal.
Gavin Brown: Just had a fantastic season. Very unlucky not to play senior footy in the second half of the year. He played down back with us all year. His transition from forward to back has been sensational and I would imagine he will play a lot of senior footy next year.
2009 AFL statistics
| G | K | H | D | M | G | B | T | C |
| 2 | 5/50.0% | 2.5/80.0% | 7.5/60.0 | 2.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 2.0 | 0.0 |
2009 VFL statistics
| G | K | H | D | M | T |
| 20 | 12.9 | 7.5 | 20.4 | 4.6 | 2.2 |
