There have been plenty of apt and able hands doing busy work, racking up impressive numbers and the competition’s depth is healthy.
Kyabram’s Kyle Mueller proved himself a cut above at Monday night’s Lightfoot Medal count, though, taking the top prize with 20 votes to sit four clear of Nagambie’s Mark Nolan.
Having also claimed the league’s runs award, batting average title and a natural place in the Haisman Shield Team of the Year, it was a busy night for the Redbacks’ main man — and a full set of hands once all was said and done.
There was little doubt left in the count with a handful of rounds remaining, with Blake Armstrong of Tatura the only challenger after 11 of 13 games.
Mueller himself had few concerns in the moment with where the cards may fall as it happened, though.
“I had a pretty solid season the whole year, so I wasn’t too worried,” Mueller said.
“I don’t get caught up in the individual awards. It’s nice to be recognised, but it takes a good team environment to get something like this.
“I think in the (round eight) Waaia game, I felt the most comfortable; it was a nice batting wicket and I felt I could manipulate the field well there.”
Of course, with his side having crashed out of the Haisman Shield last weekend in a heavily rain-affected semi-final defeat to Nagambie, there was a bittersweet emotion involved in collecting best-and-fairest honours.
“It was a little bit of a hollow feeling with it all, since weather took control of the game,” Mueller said.
“You’re happy to be beaten by a better team, but when weather is involved it doesn’t sit quite right.”
It takes a particular kind of drive not only to commit to competing at a top level in year-round sports, but excel in both pursuits.
“I train pretty smart in footy, I think, but it’s just about enjoyment with your mates and not wanting to let them down,” Mueller said.
“The friendships you have in those 12 months definitely make it easier to do.
“I don’t really like bowling too much, though, so I’m happy to let the other boys do that.”
