GEMMA Wright has been rewarded for a standout first season with the Blues, being named the 2019 Carlton VFLW Best and Fairest winner.
Crowned the top honour at the Mantra Bell City Ballroom on Friday evening, Wright finished the count on 83 votes ahead of twin sister Sarah Wright (65) and Jess Hosking and Nat Plane who shared third place with 64 votes.
Wright made the transition to VFLW football seamlessly after making the move from Keilor to the Blues in 2019, quickly cementing herself as a key part of the Blues side.
Playing 14 games this season Wright averaged 10 disposals per game playing in defence. A feature of the 25-year-old’s play was her aerial ability used to nullify her opponents.
The dependable defender was also awarded the Best First Year Player Award for her breakout season.
Outgoing VFLW Senior Coach Shannon McFerran praised Wright for her standout season and her ability to adapt so quickly.
“Gemma had limited football experience coming into the season, but you wouldn’t have known that from watching her play: she quickly found her feet and really had a presence for our side in defence,” McFerran said.
“Her basketball background was evident when she had the ball in her hands, she made great decisions and had such composure when she found herself under pressure.
“Gemma was simply outstanding this year and very much a deserving winner of the Best and Fairest award.”
The night also saw co-captain Natalie Plane awarded the Players’ Player award for her professionalism and leadership both on and off the field in 2019.
Bryannen Gurr accepted the Blue Bloods award for her dedication and commitment to uphold the Club’s values throughout the season.
Carlton’s 2019 VFLW Best and Fairest top 10:
1 – Gemma Wright 83
2 – Sarah Wright 65
3 – Jess Hosking and Nat Plane 64
4 – Mia-Rae Clifford and Nicola Stevens 62
5 – Abbie McKay 60
6 – Bryannen Gurr 51
7 – Sarah Hosking 44
8 – Breann Moody 47
9 – Charlotte Wilson 41
10 – Chloe Dalton 39
