General News
20 October, 2021
Walsh wins first John Nicholls Medal
A STUNNING season has seen Sam Walsh claim his first John Nicholls Medal as Carlton’s best and fairest.
A STUNNING season has seenSam Walsh claim his first John Nicholls Medal as Carlton’s bestand fairest.
Walsh polled 183 votes to win the award from defender Jacob Weitering (172) and forward Harry McKay (118).
The local export also received the Carltonians William A. Cook Trophy as the coterie groups best and fairest as well as the Bill Lanyon Inner Blue Ruthless award which recognises bravery, resilience and committment.
The 21 year-old, who also finished fourth in the Brownlow Medal count, was thrilled to win his first John Nicholls Medal.
“It’s obviously a huge honour,”he said.
“John Nicholls was mentioned before was a huge legend of this club so thanks to him and all the people who have allowed me to get here today.
“It’s a massive privilege.”
Walsh, who debuted in 2019, exploded this season, averaging 29.8 disposals from 22 games.
He also kicked 12 goals as he established himself among the competition’s elite.
Walsh said his rise stemmed from a desire to get the best out of himself and his team-mates.
“I think since I’ve came into the club, I’ve tried to work as hard as I can and earn the respect of my teammates,” he said.
“From there I’ve just tried to be the best person and train as hard as I can and try and get the best out of my teammates.
“I think we’d all agree that we’ve got a good group who wants to work hard and I think there will be plenty more people who will step up in that leadership area and take us places.
“I’ve always had a massive love for the game and a passion and I love the way footy is able to challenge you each week and I always want to be known as a consistent player and that’s something that I strive for.”
Walsh thanked his team-mates, coaches, friends and family following his maiden John Nicholls Medal.
“Ever since I walked into the club I’ve been backed in by those guys,” he said.
“It was well-documented it was a bit of a tough year but to David Teague, John Barker, Luke Power and Brett Stanton, you guys have probably worked with me the most and I thank you for all the support I received working over the last couple of years with you guys.
“My friends definitely keep me grounded but I also enjoy my time away from footy.
“Lastly to my family, I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. They’re always there to support me and my two bothers but they just want see me have a crack at whatever I’m passionate in.”
Carlton’s head of football Brad Lloyd congratulated Walsh on his victory, and said the midfielder was always destined to succeed.
“When Sam was drafted to our football club in 2018 he was determined to succeed and make an impact in the navy blue and his win serves as recognition for doing just that,” he said.
“What he has achieved in his career to date is extraordinary and becoming a John Nicholls Medallist marks another very special moment for him, which we and the whole Carlton family should be extremely proud of.
“While he is an undeniable talent, it has been extremely rewarding for our entire football club to see him continue to progress over the course of the last three years and enjoy another prolific season.
“He has worked unbelievably hard to become the player that he is, and after getting extremely close last year, we are thrilled that Sam has been duly recognised.”
Walsh was the third Cobden product alongside Essendon’s Zach Merrett and Fremantle’s Sean Darcy to win best and fairests this year.