AFL Awards Ceremony Recognizes Top Players of 2026

The AFL Awards held on Tuesday night acknowledged the standout performances of players during the 2026 season, following 207 home and away games.

Among the highlights, St Kilda's Max Hall and Fremantle's Murphy Reid shared the AFL Coaches Association's Best Emerging Player Award. Reid played a crucial role in Fremantle's minor premiership, while Hall's journey to recognition included impressive averages in disposals and goals. Additionally, Callum Wilkie of St Kilda was named the inaugural Defensive Player of the Year, and Nick Daicos from Collingwood received the Champion Player of the Year award, breaking a voting record.

Jordan Dawson of the Adelaide Crows was honored as the Best Captain for the second consecutive year, while Carlton's Harry Dean was recognized as the Best First Year Player. The event also featured emotional moments, including Dawson's speech on mental health awareness. Overall, the ceremony celebrated individual excellence and team achievements in Australian football.