- WAFL 2024
- What is the Sandover Medal?
- When Did the 2024 Sandover Medal Event Happen?
- Why Did Nik Rokahr and Callan England Share the Sandover Medal?
- Where Did the Sandover Medal Count Take Place?
- What’s Next for Nik Rokahr and Callan England?
- Who Were the Other Top Contenders?
- What Are the Impacts of the Sandover Medal on WAFL?
- Key Highlights from the 2024 WA Football Awards of Excellence
WAFL 2024
For the first time since 2005, the prestigious Sandover Medal has been shared by two outstanding players. In a thrilling conclusion to the season of WAFL 2024, Swan Districts’ Nik Rokahr and Claremont’s Callan England tied for the top honor with 19 votes each. The award recognizes the best and fairest player in the league, and both athletes put on remarkable performances throughout the season to earn this accolade.
What is the Sandover Medal?
The Sandover Medal is the highest individual honor in the WAFL (West Australian Football League), awarded annually to the best and fairest player as voted by the umpires. The 2024 season saw Nik Rokahr from Swan Districts and Callan England from Claremont both claim the title in a dramatic tie. This marks the first time since 2005 that the medal has been shared when Jaxon Crabb and Toby McGrath split the honor.
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When Did the 2024 Sandover Medal Event Happen?
The 2024 Sandover Medal count concluded on a spectacular night, as players, coaches, and fans eagerly awaited the results. The event took place at the WAFL’s prestigious night of nights, where the standout performers of the season were recognized. The final votes were cast following the last round of the 2024 season, which ended in September.
Why Did Nik Rokahr and Callan England Share the Sandover Medal?
The tie occurred due to an exciting turn of events in the final round. Nik Rokahr led the count with a two-vote advantage but didn’t poll in Swan Districts’ win over Perth. Meanwhile, Callan England surged ahead with a best-on-ground performance in Claremont’s match against Subiaco, earning three votes to draw level with Rokahr at 19 votes. This resulted in both players being named joint winners, the first time such a result has occurred in 19 years.
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Where Did the Sandover Medal Count Take Place?
The ceremony was held in Western Australia, a key event in the WAFL’s social and sporting calendar. The players and teams gathered to celebrate the season, with fans tuning in from around the state and beyond to watch the event unfold live.
What’s Next for Nik Rokahr and Callan England?
Both Rokahr and England have bright futures ahead. At 29 years old, Rokahr joined Swan Districts from Norwood in the SANFL and made an immediate impact, playing in every game and averaging 30 disposals per match. On the other hand, 24-year-old Callan England, a former West Coast rookie, continues to rise in the ranks, joining Claremont teammates Jye Bolton and Bailey Rogers as fellow Sandover medallists. As these two stars move forward, they will undoubtedly be key players in the WAFL, with their teams looking to build on their success.
Who Were the Other Top Contenders?
Mitch Crowden from East Perth fell just one vote short of joining Rokahr and England at the top, finishing with 18 votes. Not far behind were Matthew Parker and Haiden Schloithe from South Fremantle, and Claremont’s Ollie Eastland, all tied at 17 votes. It was a fiercely competitive race throughout the season, with many deserving players in the mix for the league’s highest honor.
What Are the Impacts of the Sandover Medal on WAFL?
The Sandover Medal shines a spotlight on the exceptional talent within the WAFL and highlights the level of competition in the league. Players like Rokahr and England set an example for aspiring athletes, showing that hard work and consistent performance can lead to individual recognition and team success. Their achievements will inspire younger players and further boost the WAFL’s reputation as a breeding ground for elite talent.
Key Highlights from the 2024 WA Football Awards of Excellence
Alongside the Sandover Medal, other prestigious awards were presented during the 2024 WAFL ceremony:
- Bernie Naylor Medal for leading goal kicker: Tyler Keitel (West Perth) with 56 goals.
- Prendergast Medal for WAFL reserves fairest and best: Menno Inverarity (Claremont).
- Jack Clarke Medal for Colts fairest and best: Declan Pauline (East Fremantle).
- JJ Leonard Medal for Coach of the Year: Ross McQueen (East Perth).
The night also honored several inductees into the WA Football Hall of Fame, including legends like Aaron Sandilands, Dale Kickett, and Tony Buhagiar.
