By JARROD POTTER
EMERALD’S greatest football export added another accomplishment to an already impressive career, with Kade Simpson named the John Nicholls’ Medallist as Carlton’s best and fairest this season.
Vice-captain Simpson, 29, won his first John Nicholls’ Medal last week, edging out teammates Andrew Walker and Lachie Henderson for the award.
Starting his football journey at Emerald Junior Football Club before working his way into the Eastern Ranges TAC Cup team, Simpson has been a consistent and reliable member of the Blues’ midfield for the last 10 years – after his drafting by Carlton with pick number 45 in the 2002 National Draft.
2013 will be a year he looks back on fondly, playing his 200th AFL match in the semi-final against Sydney at ANZ Stadium on top of winning the best and fairest.
The 29-year-old is one of just five Carlton players to play in every game in 2013, and he had the highest number of disposals in the team with 533 for the season.
Simpson said in his best and fairest speech that it is his greatest individual achievement, but thought the elimination final victory over Richmond stands out as his fondest memory.
“Yeah, individually yes, but as a team… the Richmond win was a huge thrill,” Simpson said.
“I think it’s definitely something… probably tomorrow I’ll sit back and really think about and once the career is over it will be something I’m very proud of.”
Simpson highlighted his switch defensively as a key moment in this season, and credited his team mates in the backline for helping him build confidence.
“I think early on when I went down back it was really about defending first and not being a liability so I was focused on beating my man and… defending,” Simpson said.
“When I grew in confidence and got to know the boys that were playing around me a bit better, I gained a lot of trust out of those guys and backed myself in a little bit to win the footy and defend my man as well.”
Blues Coach Mick Malthouse says the award is deserved recognition for one of Carlton’s most courageous men.
“Kade is one of those players who shows great courage by putting his body on the line week after week,” Malthouse said.
“When the team is challenged on the field, Kade is always one of the first to stand up, paying the price physically but also reaping the rewards.
“He has had a magnificent season and has been a real worry to the opposition with his run and ball use. I congratulate Kade on this terrific achievement.”
Simpson polled 92 votes in the count, ahead of Walker (77), Henderson (71) and Ed Curnow (67).
