STAWELL Warrior Jakob Salmi has capped off a great season by taking out the Wimmera Football League’s under-17s best and fairest award.
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Salmi has been an integral part of a Stawell Warriors outfit that finished second in the regular season.
The Warriors only lost three games and finished one game behind Ararat.
Salmi said he had enjoyed being part of a successful team this season.
“I’m most happy with how we have been playing as a team, especially in our latest game against Horsham,” he said.
“I didn’t expect to be up there in the count tonight.”
Salmi polled 18 votes to finish five-clear at the top of the leader board.
Horsham’s Jacob Glare finished tied for second with Nhill’s Angus Wheaton. The pair polled 13 votes apiece. Glare’s teammate Bailey Nelson finished third with 12 votes.
Salmi’s teammate Aiden Graveson took out the goal kicking award after kicking 44 goals for the season.
Salmi said him and Graveson had worked well together this season.
“I need to thank my big man in the forward line, Aiden, for taking all the big marks,” he said.
Salmi also said he had played plenty of senior football this season, something he has enjoyed.
“I’ve played most of the season in seniors and sometimes it’s been a bit tough but it’s been good,” he said.
“I’ve learnt to use my body a bit more playing against the bigger blokes.”
Salmi and the Warriors will take on Horsham in the under-17s qualifying final on Saturday.
Graveson said he had enjoyed playing in a strong team this season.
“I need to thank my teammates, I can’t get the ball without them working hard in the midfield and getting the ball to me,” he said.
“Jakob had a good season and was a great captain. He kicked a few over my head during the season but he did well. He brought the team together well.
“We know we need to work hard now in finals because all the teams are a good quality. We are going to have to work hard.”
Graveson said he used his big frame as an advantage this season.
“I’m a bit big so I’m not really quick enough to kick a snap so usually I take a mark and go back for a set shot,” he said.