Western Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley claimed his first Charles Sutton Medal on Wednesday.
The midfielder polled 231 votes ahead of fellow midfielder Tom Liberatore, who finished on 211 votes, to claim the Bulldogs best and fairest.
Key forward Aaron Naughton (180), four-time winner Marcus Bontempelli (174) and vice-captain Jack Macrae (170) rounded out the top five performers of the 2022 campaign.
Dunkley finished the season strongly, polling 52 votes in the final three rounds and the elimination final to overcome a consistent Liberatore.
The 25-year-old played every game this season, averaging 25 possessions, six tackles and six marks a game, while scoring 18 goals.
The win comes after Dunkley informed the club that he wanted to be traded to the Brisbane Lions during the trade period.
Bulldogs general manager – list and recruiting Sam Power said it was disappointing for the club.
“We believe Josh is at the peak of his powers in a football sense having had a career-best season in 2022, averaging 25 disposals and kicking 18 goals across the campaign.
“The club was clearly intent on Josh staying with the Bulldogs, having tabled an attractive contract offer for him to continue with us for the long term.”
Liberatore also secured the John Van Groningen domestique of the year award, which is voted on by the players.
The heart and soul 30-year-old averaged more than seven clearances per game this season.
Young star Sam Darcy won the Chris Grant Best First Year Player award, showing plenty of promise during four games, including a final against Fremantle.
Ed Richards won the Tony Liberatore most improved player award, playing 22 matches and averaging 19 touches.
Ryan Gardner claimed the Brad Johnson best team player award, while small forward Cody Weightman showed an abundance of heart over the year to take out the Scott West most courageous award.
Bontempelli was recognised for his 30-disposal and two-goal game against Fremantle in the Elimination Final, named as the club’s best finals player.
Roarke Smith won the Ben Bradley award for the VFL trainers’ award and Lachie Sullivan won the VFL best and fairest.
