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...
Richmond
Skipper Toby Nankervis was a strong candidate given the total lack of praise coming his way in arguably a career-best season, but the role that Ben Miller is playing as one of the primary defenders in a depleted back half has also gone unrecognised.
He is having exponentially his best season to date, ranking third in the competition for one-percenters and developing his intercepting game to that of the top key defenders in the game.
He's already taken 25 intercept marks this year, his previous best was seven. He's entering more one-on-one contests than ever before and losing less, going at a loss rate under 17%.
He's found a home under Adem Yze and looks comfortable, with Josh Gibcus to return next season, maybe these two are the key posters to build around for Richmond's future down back.
