Diehard AFL fans will never let one of their own go unrecognised, even if external praise eludes them.
Players like Josh Battle, Matt Cottrell, Tom Sparrow and Brent Daniels have played a crucial role at their respective club for years, but never seem to reach the limelight of external discussion or award recognition. Some of that has changed, but a plethora of players need some more love.
This year, several players have stood up in a pivotal spot or in a new role and thrived. Others have toiled away at their job without public acknowledgement of the year they're having.
This piece aims to congratulate those who haven't received the widespread appreciation they deserve, offering a brief moment of stardom before they likely escape discussion once again this weekend...
Hawthorn
Led by captain James Sicily in defence, Scrimshaw and emerging talent Josh Weddle make up a potent intercepting and rebounding trio for Sam Mitchell's side moving forward.
They showed what they could do in Dusty's 300th a couple of weeks ago, when they controlled the back half with the authority of a seasoned side, launching countless attacks with their long-bombing boots.
The ruthless spray Mitchell delivered to Scrimshaw earlier in the season may have soured the outside view of the 25-year-old Hawk, but his impact on the side is documented in the Hawthorn camp and well-recognised by his mastermind coach.
Like the Birchall's, Smith's and Suckling's of the bygone era, Scrimshaw may become a similar model in a new era of success at Hawthorn.
