Sydney star Isaac Heeney said the honour of winning his third consecutive Bob Skilton Medal was the first time he "smiled and felt positive" since the Pullman Hotel incident in August.
Heeney topped the count from Brodie Grundy and recruit Charlie Curnow, and delivered a video message as he wasn't in attendance.
The Swans gun, alongside Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice and James Jordon (the five involved in the scandal), asked not to attend the evening to avoid detracting from the event.
"When I was told about this honour, it was the first time I smiled and felt positive about the future in a long time. While I wasn't able to attend the awards tonight, I look forward to saying more in person very soon," Heeney said.
"I want to say to everyone — in particular my teammates, the Swans players, the AFLW, and the staff — from the depths of my heart, I'm truly sorry for putting you through the extreme difficulty you've had to endure, as it's had a huge impact on our club.
"Every single day I was away from the club was heartbreaking, knowing that I couldn't make a contribution. Every single day, I think about what could have been.
"To my teammates, a huge thank you. Your incredible fight at the end of the season was inspiring. I was so proud of you all, and gutted I wasn't there. Your commitment to success is why I love playing alongside you and being part of this group.
"To Coxy, the coaches, and every single member of the staff involved in our program: thank you for everything you do. The time, care, and effort you put into us as players and as people is incredible. I am extremely grateful for your support.
"Finally, I just wanted to say how incredibly honoured I am to receive this award. It's named after the legendary Swan, Bob Skilton, and has been won by so many past greats of the club, including Paul Kelly, a hero of mine growing up. It reminded me of my great love of playing football for the Sydney Swans — a club which has given me so much throughout my career. I want my actions moving forward to show how much this place and these people mean to me.
"I'm incredibly excited about what this group can do. I can't wait to get back to training with the boys, get better, and tackle next year together.
"To all the other award winners, congratulations on your fantastic achievements. You should be extremely proud, as I'm sure you are."
Heeney also thanked his family and partner Steffie throughout his two-minute address.
Bob Skilton Medal, Top 10:
1st: Isaac Heeney, 431
2nd: Brodie Grundy, 400
3rd: Charlie Curnow, 398
4th: Chad Warner, 397
5th: Jai Serong, 352
6th: Callum Mills, 342
7th: Nick Blakey, 339
8th: Tom McCartin, 338
9th: Tom Papley, 304
10th: James Jordon, 301
Heeney's incredible on-field season would've yielded another All-Australian blazer (if he wasn't ineligible) and claimed a top-10 finish in the Brownlow Medal (26 votes).
