Richmond defender Dylan Grimes has been recognised by his playing peers as the AFL’s Most Courageous player.
The hard-working backman received the Robert Rose Award for Most Courageous Player at the AFL Players’ Association’s MVP Awards this evening.
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The 28-year-old, who has played 148 games in the Yellow and Black, is the first Richmond player to receive the prestigious award.
A deserving recipient, Grimes’ resilience on the football field in 2019 has been undeniable.
Grimes has filled the void left by injured Alex Rance, leading Richmond’s tight-knit defensive unit to great effect this season.
A general in defence, the Tiger has asserted himself as one of Richmond’s most important players.
Across 22 home and away games this season, Grimes has averaged 13.1 disposals, 5.1 marks, 7.0 intercepts, 2.8 rebound-50s and 6.8 one-percenters per game.
Grimes’ tough nature was on display in Richmond’s Round 22 win over West Coast, when he limped off the ground after hurting his ankle, but returned to play out the game.
The setback did not stop him from playing in Richmond’s crucial win over Brisbane last Sunday, with senior coach Damien Hardwick praising his dedication in the lead up to the match.
“It's a testament to Dylan, he's a thorough professional, he would have been up icing around the clock, it's the sort of guy he is," Hardwick said last Thursday.
The award capped off a decorated week for Grimes, who was last night announced in his first All Australian team.
Young gun Sydney Stack also featured at the AFLPA MVP Awards function, receiving selection into the 2019 22Under22 team.
The first-year talent, who was recruited via the AFL’s pre-season supplemental selection period, has enjoyed a stellar debut season as a Tiger.
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Stack, 19, played 17 home and away games this season, averaging 17.2 disposals, 4.9 marks and three tackles per game.
While he has been chosen as a backman in the 22Under22 team, Stack has proven his versatility across the season playing in a number of positions.
