AFTER an outstanding season Liam McMahon has been named as the 2024 Carlton VFL Best and Fairest.
Placing second in the competition’s goalkicking tally, McMahon scored two or more goals in every game for the Blues, kicking seven majors in the side’s Round 20 win over Geelong.
Arriving at the Blues VFL program in 2023 after two seasons at Collingwood, McMahon has cemented his spot in the side as a leader and target in attack.
The 198cm forward’s aerial ability is a focal point for the Blues’ attacking half game, with his flexibility to play down back also a great asset to the side.
Backing up his standout season last year, Jaxon Binns has taken out second place after last year’s triumph.
Highly regarded for his repeat efforts and running capacity, the 19-year-old continued to level up his skills averaging 26 disposals across his 16 matches this season.
Consistently showcasing his talent throughout the VFL, Binns was awarded with his AFL debut as sub in Round 7 against Geelong, before playing the final two games of the season for the senior side.
Will White has taken out third place in the Club’s VFL Best and Fairest after making his debut in the opening game of the season.
Featuring in all 18 matches, White’s class and talent was evident throughout, especially in the side’s Round 4 win against Port Melbourne in a three-goal showing.
Along with placing third, the emerging talent was awarded the Best Young Player award for his consistent effort across the season.
After making the move from Coburg at the start of season 2024, Luke Nelson took home the Coaches Award, emerging as an important player in the line-up as a versatile option.
Rounding out the honours was co-captain Lachlan Swaney who has been awarded the Best Clubman for the second year in a row, again touted for living the Club’s core values both on and off the field.
VFL Senior Coach Luke Power said the Club was excited by all the talent coming through the VFL program and their commitment to growth and development.
“Liam, Jaxon, Will, Lachie and Luke are all deserving of their placings and awards for the sheer commitment and hard work they have put in across the year: they should be proud of what they have been able to achieve on field,” Power said.
“Liam is a resilient and courageous player and is well-respected by the team. He was worked incredibly hard to produce the form he has shown this year and for him to be crowned our VFL Best and Fairest is true recognition for his commitment both on and off the field.
“Jaxon’s ability to build on his outstanding season last year and continue showing growth is a true reflection of his work ethic. He has adapted well to the highest level, putting into place his hard work at VFL level.
“Will is an extremely deserving recipient of both awards. He has slotted effortlessly into our side and carries himself with such an infectious energy. He has a passion for learning about ways to improve his craft which is an admirable trait.
“It is great to formally recognise the work Lachie does for our program, not only committing himself to his own craft but also investing and leading players around him. We really value his work ethic and genuine care for others, and it is something we hold highly at the Club.
“Luke couldn’t have been more impressive with the way he attacked his first season at IKON Park. He played a number of roles for the team and always fronted up, he was a great asset for our entire coaching staff throughout the course of the year.
"It has been impressive to watch how each of our award winners have consistently upheld great standards all season long.
"The Club is dedicated to growing each player, and we will keep investing in their development to help them refine their skills and reach new heights in their football journey."
2024 Carlton VFL Awards
Winner: Liam McMahon
Runner-up: Jaxon Binns
Third place: Will White
Best Young Player: Will White
Best Clubman: Lachlan Swaney
Coaches Award: Luke Nelson
Players Award: Liam McMahon
