WITH the top honour still up for grabs, two Blues have been recognised for their outstanding contributions over the 2019 AFLW season.  

An exceptional debut season behind her, Madison Prespakis had the competition all but sewn up for the Visy Best First Year Player award.  

The youngster made an immediate impact for the Blues after being selected at pick No.3 in the 2018 NAB AFL Women’s Draft.  

Playing every game in AFLW 3.0, Prespakis led Carlton in both the disposal and clearance counts over the nine games.  

The competition was quick to take notice of the dynamic midfielder, awarding her both the 2019 NAB Rising Star and AFLPA Best First Year Player award.  

Prespakis was also among the three Blues named in the 2019 All-Australian side, along with Kerryn Harrington and Gab Pound.   With that list of accolades, it is no surprise the classy midfielder walked away with the Blues’ Visy Best First Year Player award on Thursday night.  

With all the attention on on-field performance, it was also a night to recognise outstanding off-field contributions.  

A deserving recipient, Natalie Plane was awarded the Blue Bloods award for consistently demonstrating club values over the season.  

The Blue Bloods recipient is voted by the coaches as the player that best embodies a team-first attitude in their role at the club.  

Playing four games in 2019, Plane missed out on selection in an increasingly competitive forward group as the Blues’ finals campaign heated up.  

Regardless of whether she was named in the playing group or not, Plane was unwavering in her positivity and preparation, drawing the praise and respect of her peers and coaches.