Tara Murray
Monique Conti has been voted by her peers as the best player in the AFLW.
On Wednesday night, the former Keilor resident, was named the winner of the AFLW Players most valuable player award, which is voted on by all players in the competition.
After finishing third in the season six most valuable player count earlier this year, Conti edged out previous winner, Jasmine Garner, and Western Bulldogs skipper Ellie Blackburn for the trophy.
The former basketballer joins Dustin Martin as the only Richmond players to claim the most valuable player trophy and, at the age of 22, is the youngest recipient from the AFLW competition.
Conti, who reached 50 AFLW games in the Tigers’ qualifying final match averaged 21.7 disposals, 12.4 contested possessions, 6.2 tackles and kicked eight goals during the home and away season.
AFLPA president Patrick Dangerfield said Conti was a deserving winner.
“She’s a star, who’s skilful, courageous and hunts the footy and her opponent,” he said. With her best footy still in front of her, I’m excited to watch the yellow and black number four for years to come.”
Former Western Region Football League star Jasmine Garner finished second, while Blackburn rounded out the top three. Garner also previously played for the St Albans Spurs.
It’s been a big week for Conti and Garner as both were among the favourites heading into the AFLW best and fairest award on Tuesday night.
Conti finished second on 19 votes, two votes behind winner, the Brisbane Lions Ally Anderson.
Garner, who was one of the favourites heading into the count, polled several votes late but wasn’t in the mix throughout the count as many of her early season performances were overlooked.
Both were named in the team of the year, with Garner named captain of the side.
In other AFLPA awards, the Bulldogs Kirsty Lamb finished second in the most courageous player award behind Chelsea Randall.
