SWFL 2022: Simon Moore and Katie-Jayne Grieve recognised as competition’s best

Augusta-Margaret River’s Simon Moore etched himself into SWFL folklore after claiming consecutive Hayward medals on Friday night with 31 votes.

The victory means the humble champion became the first player since Richie Lee — also a Hawks great — in 1986 to receive the highest individual men’s accolade in back-to-back seasons.

Busselton’s Mitch Tenardi finished second in the vote count with 23 votes, and Eaton Boomers onballer Jordan Falco (19) came third.

It was a busy day for Moore, who travels around WA in his full-time job as a physiotherapist.

After arriving at Perth airport, the classy onballer was picked up from the terminal by Hawks coach Matt Jamieson, who drove them to Gloucester Park in Margaret River for a club function.

Moore, who received his medal from SWFL president Barry Tate, spoke about his personal gratitude for Jamieson, his teammates and parents.

“My mum and dad have been really good supporters of mine over the years,” Moore said.

“They continue to follow my football career — even if it is a three-hour drive away or there are a few rainy days. I really appreciate it and cherish their support.

“The AMRFC as a whole? I’ve been fortunate enough to be down here and have made some lifelong friends. The administration we have got, coupled by the support I have received, is second to none.”

Another equally special player recognised on the night was Busselton’s Katie-Jayne Grieve, who claimed the Nola Marino Medal in a canter.

Aside from racking up a competition-record 30 votes, all of Grieve’s votes came from 10 performances deemed best on ground by the umpires.

Grieve, who previously played for Carlton and Fremantle in the AFLW, was delighted on two fronts upon receiving her medal.

In addition to the joy of celebrating with her Magpies teammates who had gathered at Sir Stewart Bovell Park, Grieve was thrilled of receiving an honour named after Ms Marino, who is arguably the South West’s most passionate female football advocate.

“I am really happy Nola, because it is (associated) from you, so I am really excited about that,” Grieve said.

“Coming back to the SWFL really brought back the reasons of why I started playing football. It taught me a lot playing up in the higher leagues — but it also made me realise my passion for playing back down here.”

Harvey Bulls reserves midfielder Dean Miller was also a big winner on the night after he claimed a thrilling Times Medal count.