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...
North Melbourne
Now, while everyone rates this kid, few consider him among the top 10 players of the competition this season, let alone in the All-Australian mix.
His previous role in the running half-back slot has somewhat diminished his recognition to a cheap ball-winner who hits uncontested kicks with no influence on games.
This is not the case... anymore at least.
In recent weeks he has been drifting forward and showcasing a new array of skills every week. He's crafty enough to find the ball inside 50, he's got the footy smarts to find the goals and he's now strong enough to rise for contested marks as he did against Melbourne.
Champion Data went as far as to rate him as the 5th best player in the competition with the current form he's in.
In a season without a heap of forwards separating themselves from the rest in team-of-the-year honours, Sheezel could be one to watch for All-Australian selection on a flank.
