HORSHAM football product Jake Lloyd’s rise to the top of the AFL ranks is complete after claiming the Sydney Swans’ best and fairest.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Lloyd claimed his first Bob Skilton Medal on Friday night after finishing with 540 votes, ahead of Luke Parker (517) and star forward Lance Franklin (510).
Lloyd played all 23 games in 2018 and averaged 28 disposals, seven marks and six rebound 50s.
Sydney Swans coach John Longmire said Lloyd deserved the medal.
“From the moment Jake arrived at the club he instantly impressed all of us with his work ethic and his eagerness to learn and make the most of his opportunity,” Longmire said.
“Credit to Jake because he’s done exactly that – he’s become an integral part of our team and an emerging leader of our back six. It’s a terrific achievement to be crowned Club Champion and a great reward for the commitment and work he’s put in.”
Lloyd is the second product of the Horsham Football Netball Club to claim an AFL club best and fairest in two years, after Seb Ross won St Kilda’s last season.
The medal comes after another standout season for Lloyd in defence.
Since joining the Swans in 2012, Lloyd has become the fastest Sydney player to reach 100 games, a milestone he clocked in round eight this season.
Lloyd also made the All-Australian squad of 40, but missed out on selection in the team.
Last month, questions surrounding Lloyd’s future were put to rest when the star player penned a new four-year deal with Sydney.