A TRIO of footballers received E.G. Hunt Medals for the senior best and fairest in a thrilling conclusion to the Golden Rivers Football Netball League (GRFNL) presentation night.
Moulamein's Thomas Isma, Daniel Watts of Nullawil and Hay's Jackson Ferguson each departed with a winner's trophy, having all finished the home and away season with 19 votes.
Goalkicking midfielder Isma added to his 2014 league best and fairest which he won when representing Ultima, having also won last season's Most Valuable Player award, earned in Moulamein colours.
He described it as a win for the club, also noting the success of Moulamein's Stevie Bibby (winner of the A-grade netball best and fairest).
The Swan quipped he was surprised to poll so well in the best and fairest after having a bit to say to the umpires during the year.
Hay's Ferguson explained what it meant to be a joint best and fairest.
"It's an absolute honour to win this award," he said.
"I guess it speaks for itself, the blokes I've won it with tonight, probably two of the more respected blokes in the league."
Ferguson said he loves competing against Isma and Watts and has enjoyed playing on the same side as the pair in interleague football.
Watts congratulated the other two winners, declaring it a "massive honour to win this".
The third generation Nullawil farmer and Maroons playing veteran will have little time to reflect on the achievement as he focuses on helping the club in its attempt to win a second-straight flag in Saturday's senior grand final.
Last year's runner-up Ultima is again the challenger on the big day.
The triple tie for last night's honour ended a successful combined football and netball awards night, the first time the GRFNL has brought the two sports together.
"Why shouldn't we celebrate together as a league?" asked Central Rivers Board chairman John Brookshaw during his opening speech.
Bibby's netball honour, the Reita Pay Memorial Award, acknowledged an impressive season in which the Swans defender polled 29 votes, six ahead of runner-up Mary Yates-Ward of Murrabit.
It is turning into a big week for Moulamein, with the club playing in its first A-grade netball grand final tomorrow.
Bibby's defensive nous will be called upon as the Swans strive to topple reigning premier Nullawil.
