Ally Anderson has been crowned the Lions’ AFLW Best & Fairest for the 2019 season, 10 days after being named an All Australian for the first time. The 22-year old was presented her trophy by Chairman Andrew Wellington in front of delighted guests at Hillstone, St Lucia earlier this evening.

The 22-year-old finished top of the leader board with 95 votes, closely followed by runner-up Nat Exon who had 84 votes. Last year’s winner Kate Lutkins finished in third place with 78, with inaugural winner Emily Bates coming fourth with 76.

Anderson had a breakout third season in the midfield averaging 21.0 disposals per game, amongst the highest in the competition and five tackles per game. In three seasons she has played all possible 23 games for the Lions. 

After her Round 4 performance over the Bulldogs, she was voted AFL Players MVP of the Week and polled maximum Coaches Votes.

Lions Women’s CEO Breeanna Brock said it has been a privilege watching Anderson flourish in the Lions’ program over the past three seasons.

“Ally is one of the hardest working players at our Club, so we are delighted to see her rewarded with this recognition,” Brock said.

“She has brought great enthusiasm over the past couple of years.”

Coach Craig Starcevich echoed Brock’s sentiments.

“In three seasons we’ve seen Ally’s disposal average in the AFLW competition triple,” he said.

“Having the likes of Lions premiership winners Simon Black and Clark Keating helping her with her craft work, has seen her game go to a new level.

“We are all thrilled to watch her development each season." 

Anderson is also well respected for her work off the field with her involvement in the Lions’ Reconciliation Action Plan and Deadly Choices.