The Western Bulldogs will crown the 2024 Charles Sutton Medallist this Wednesday evening. Take a look at the best contenders for the Club’s most coveted crown.
You can stream the 2024 Charles Sutton Medal live via www.westernbulldogs.com.au from 7.30pm AEST on Wednesday, October 2.
Marcus Bontempelli
Could the inspirational skipper equal Club great Gary Dempsey with six Charles Sutton Medals? That’s what is ahead of the 28-year-old if he can claim victory on Wednesday night. Bontempelli had another fantastic campaign, making his sixth All Australian team, named as captain, while claiming the Leigh Matthews MVP Trophy for a third time. Remarkably, the midfielder kicked a career-high 32 goals in 2024.
Ed Richards
When Tom Liberatore went down with concussion the Bulldogs needed a midfield solution, in Ed Richards they found more than that. Playing 21 games in 2024, Richards was shifted to the midfield with amazing effect, displaying his speed and agility to add a different dimension to the centre bounce. Averaging 22 touches and kicking 11 goals for the season, Richards is expected to poll well in another terrific campaign.
>>> ALL PAST CHARLES SUTTON MEDAL WINNERS
Adam Treloar
A career-best season and maiden All Australia blazer, that’s the kind of season Adam Treloar put together. A first club fairest and best may well be on the cards for the 31-year-old, averaging 32 touches a game and gathering 26 votes in the Brownlow Medal last week. He looks a major threat to the skipper and would cap off a sensational 2024 for the loved midfielder.
Bailey Dale
The ever-reliable Bailey Dale is another key contender to the Charles Sutton crown. The defender found plenty of form during the middle of the season and is expected to come home with a wet sail during the count. Dale averaged more than 500 metres gained in 2024, showing his ability to dash off half-back and use his incredible ball skills to great effect. A genuine chance for the All-Australian squad member.
Liam Jones
Forming part of the fortress down back, Liam Jones’ second return season in the red, white and blue was just as good as his first. Providing valuable leadership down back and taking the best forward each week, Jones excelled in his role. Each week, the 33-year-old was replied upon and delivered but a late-season knee injury may prove costly in the medal race.
Others in the mix
The past two seasons, Tom Liberatore has run a close second at the Charles Sutton Medal and could threaten again in 2024. The veteran was curtailed by concussion across the year but showed his trademark grit and determination throughout the season. Tim English played all bar one game in 2024 and will again poll strongly in another solid campaign at Mission Whitten Oval. Rory Lobb should gain votes late in the season with a move down back, dominating games in the final rounds of the year.
