CARLTON co-vice captain Sam Walsh continued his strong start to 2026, polling a perfect performance in Round 1.
After receiving three votes in the Opening Round loss against Sydney, Walsh was the unanimous best player on the ground as the Blues held on for their first win of the season against Richmond.
In a game where he had 30 disposals and posed a threat all night on the inside and outside of the contest, Walsh was joined by some fellow midfielders in his 10-vote game.
Patrick Cripps was adjudged the next best player on the ground, with the skipper - who received six votes - at his physical best in a commanding showing which saw him amass 32 disposals, 19 contested possessions and nine clearances.
In what we can only assume will be the first of a few coaches’ votes over the course of his career, Jagga Smith also featured with five votes.
The Round 1 Telstra AFL Rising Star nominee was prolific with 32 disposals, 15 of those coming in the first term, with every disposal cheered by a packed Carlton crowd.
Rounding out the votes was Jacob Weitering, who received a solitary one for his impressive defensive performance with the Blues under pressure late. Weitering is yet to lose a one-on-one contest in 2026.
AFLCA votes for Round 1:
10 - Sam Walsh (CARL)
6 - Patrick Cripps (CARL)
6 - Jayden Short (RICH)
5 - Jagga Smith (CARL)
2 - Tim Taranto (RICH)
1 - Jacob Weitering (CARL)
