It was a stellar year for Jacob Weitering, who was awarded the 2023 John Nicholls Medal for the second time in the Navy Blue, becoming one of eight players in history to achieve this feat.
The co-vice captain solidified himself as one of the league’s best backmen, being selected for the 40-man All-Australian squad, taking on the important role of defending the best opposing forward on each team.
Dominant in the air in 2023, Weitering led the league for marks, intercept marks (seven clear of any other player) and third for total contested marks.
The 25-year-old played his role in the leaner times of the season, leading from the front and holding down the backline, playing every game for the season including all three finals.
A leader on-and-off the field, Weitering played an instrumental role in building a robust backline, helping newcomers such as Brodie Kemp, Alex Cincotta and Jordan Boyd find their place and build their skills.
Chalking up his 150th game in Round 18 against Port Adelaide, Weitering presents himself as a seasoned footballer and leader, with his maturity and measured approach the inspiration of his teammates.
