The AFL has announced the finalists for the 2026 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award.
Fremantle's Bailey Banfield, Western Bulldogs' Tom Liberatore and Melbourne's Kysaiah Pickett are all in contention.
Presented on Brownlow Medal night, the award recognises the AFL player who best embodies the values of the late Jim Stynes -Melbourne champion and former Demons President – recognising their outstanding commitment to community service and leadership.
Previous winners include Harris Andrews, Madi Scanlon, Sam Docherty, Joel Selwood and Travis Boak.
The winner to receive $40,000 to be donated to the charity or community program of their choice.
Meanwhile, Carlton Football Club's Carlton Respects has been named the winner of the Jim Stynes Foundation Club Community Award.
The community award recognises the AFL club program that best reflects the Jim Stynes Foundation's mission to build a generation of happy, healthy and resilient young people.
“Jim Stynes left a legacy that continues to inspire not just our players, but the broader football community, and his belief in using football as a force for good continues on through this award,” AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said.
“I'd like to acknowledge all the nominees and congratulate Bailey, Tom and Kysaiah as this year's finalists. Their contribution to communities across the country reflects the positive impact our players have beyond the game.”
“I'd also like to thank the Jim Stynes Foundation for their continued partnership to recognise the community contributions of our players.”
