Adam Cooney, the Bulldogs' No.1 selection in the 2003 NAB AFL National Draft, elevated his game to the highest level in 2008.
Cooney polled 24 votes to pip Brisbane Lions favourite Simon Black (23) and claim 'Charlie'. It was a significant year for Cooney, who also made All Australian selection. His team also made the preliminary final, before falling to Geelong.
Cooney's triumph meant it was the first time a No. 1 draft pick had won the award. He played 219 games for the Bulldogs between 2004-2014, before finishing his career at Essendon.
2008 Brownlow Medal Leaderboard
Player |
Team |
Votes |
Adam Cooney | Western Bulldogs | 24 |
Simon Black | Brisbane | 23 |
Gary Ablett Jr. | Geelong | 22 |
Matthew Richardson | Richmond | 22 |
Adam Goodes* | Sydney | 21 |
Lance Franklin* | Hawthorn | 20 |
Joel Selwood | Geelong | 19 |
Brent Harvey | North Melbourne | 17 |
Matthew Pavlich | Fremantle | 17 |
*Ineligible due to suspension