It was another year that Richmond's Jack Dyer Medal was presented remotely, however there was still plenty to celebrate, with star premiership defender Dylan Grimes taking out the best and fairest for the 2021 season.
In what was a difficult season for the Tigers, Grimes' consistency and reliability in the backline rewarded him with 51 votes for the season, five votes ahead of Jack Graham and Liam baker.
The 30-year-old and three-time premiership player was required to become one of Richmond's most versatile defenders due to the absence of his team mates in the backline, including Nick Vlastuin and Nathan Broad, who both spent time out through injury.
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Despite it being one of "the most challenging years of [his] career" Grimes said it was a "huge honour" and he was "over the moon" to be recognised for his efforts during the season.
"I'm super grateful to have the support from the coaches and have my role appreciated, its not the sexiest role on the field but I absolutely love it," Grimes said, per Richmond Media.
Grimes played 21 of the 22 games this year and ranked top five at the club for intercepts, marks, contested marks and rebounds 50s.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
Graham and Baker were both announced as this year's runners-up in the best and fairest on 46 votes and will both share the Jack Titus Medal.
Upon the announcement of being named the runner up with his teammate, Graham was lost for words and said his greatest improvement was playing "consistent footy this year."
"Being able to stay in the team and play my role has helped me a lot this year," he said.
After five year, Graham had his best season for the Tigers as a standout in Damien Hardwick's midfield.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
Baker played all 22 games this year with an average 20.3 disposals per a game and told said "it was a tough year" but a "little change in mindset and talking a bit with Shane Edwards" helped him find his feet.
Like Grimes, Baker became one the Tigers' most versatile players on the field, taking on positions in the midfield, forward and backline due to the absence of other players with injuries.
"I am always happy to play where the coaches want me to play," he said.
Liam Baker was among the best at Richmond this season for contested possessions, intercepts, disposals and tackles.
Highly-skilled and speedy forward Shai Bolton was the recipient of the Fred Swift Medal for his efforts over season.
Richmond young guns also shined, with Riley Collier-Dawkins taking out the Best First Year Player Award for his impressive start to his football career in the midfield, while Will Martyn was awarded the Tiger's VFL best and fairest after his average of 25 disposals and six tackles per game this season.
2021 Jack Dyer Medal Top 10
1st – Dylan Grimes, 51 votes
Eq. 2nd – Jack Graham, 46
Eq. 2nd – Liam Baker, 46
4th – Shai Bolton, 45
Eq. 5th – Jack Riewoldt, 40
Eq. 5th – Dustin Martin, 40
7th – Jayden Short, 39
8th – Tom Lynch, 38
9th – Kane Lambert, 35
Eq. 10th – Trent Cotchin, 33
Eq. 10th – Nathan Broad, 33
