Another gong for Gazza
08/09/2008 11:30 PM
Geelong star Gary Ablett has capped off a tremendous season by winning a second consecutive AFL Players' Association Most Valuable Player award.
Despite missing four games of the home and away season, Ablett amassed a total of 503 disposals, 84 marks and 86 tackles in his 18 matches and joined Greg Williams, Michael Voss and Wayne Carey as fellow two-time AFLPA MVP winners.
The 24-year-old received 1088 votes, with Hawthorn forward Lance Franklin (718) finishing second, North Melbourne veteran Brent Harvey (440) third, Richmond star Matthew Richardson (148) fourth and Carlton midfielder Chris Judd (140) fifth.
"This is a massive honour as it is voted on by my peers," Ablett said after receiving the award.
"It means a huge amount to me that the players that I play against each week have voted for me and it is very humbling to win this award."
Ablett was quick to give praise to his team-mates and coaches.
"While this is an individual award, there is no way that I could be in this position without my team-mates and the coaches at Geelong and I want to thank them for everything they have done for me, not only this season but over my time with the club," Ablett added.
In other award categories, Brisbane Lions forward Jonathan Brown won the Robert Rose most courageous player award, Geelong skipper Tom Harley was voted the competition's best captain, while Fremantle youngster Rhys Palmer was awarded the best first year player award.