As the South West Robins churned through 42 first grade players in 2017, Brad Vidler was one of few mainstays in the squad throughout the season.
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His consistency on the team sheet and performance-wise on the field has landed Vidler the South West Robins best and fairest award for the season, even though the fullback would put a couple players in front of himself.
“I reckon a few other people should have won but it’s an honour to win the award,” he said.
“Kyle Shephard was the biggest improver, he would have been one I’d have given it to.”
Shephard and Vidler were two of nine players to notch up 10 games or more in first grade side in 2017.
Vidler described this group of players as a band of brothers and a contributing factor to why he desperately wanted to tough out a season where South West only registered three wins and leaked 986 points.
“Pretty much just the dedication from about 10 blokes. We’re all pretty much brothers,” Vidler said.
“It was pretty disappointing [to see other players drop off]. It would have been good to see all the boys stay.
“You have to give it to the 10 blokes that stayed and hung around. It’s good to see they have their hearts in the right place and giving their all for the team.”
And if Vidler could clone those 10 players – blokes like best forward Shepherd and player’s player Ben Howarth – he would.
Those are the type of people Vidler believes will help rebuild the club.
“[We’re] just trying to get the players with a bit more dedication,” Vidler said.
“We want the guys that play for the love of the game, not for money.
“I’ve spoken to a few of the boys, like Kyle and Benny, and they're happy to stick around.”
Vidler also believes coach Shane Rampling has a part to play next year.
He said, as far he knew, Rampling would stick around next year and that was a bonus for the side.
“He brings a lot of skill and experience to the team – I think he’s played over in England before,” Vidler said.
“Playing under him means he can pass on all that experience to the boys.
“We all look up to him and he gives everyone a fair go.”
The presentation was held on Saturday, October 7.
AWARD WINNERS
MEN
Best and fairest
Brad Vidler
Player’s player
Ben Howarth
Coach’s award-best forward
Kyle Shephard
Coach’s award-best back
Daniel Hall
Rookie player of the year
Shannon Nean
LADIES
Best and fairest
Elizabeth Woods
Player’s player
Sharika Nean
Coach’s award
Maria Monika
Most improved
Karena Howarth
Rookie player of the year
Tay Styman
Club person of the year
Carley Howarth and Renee Leigh