Joey Chaplin wins player of the match after reluctant return
Joey Chaplin won the Wayne Wing Medal for best on ground after hesitantly returning to Devonport's lineup.
Chaplin played his first match for Devonport since round one and walked away with the Wayne Wing Medal for best on ground. The 24-year-old had spent the year playing VFL for Tasmania, so coming back felt like taking someone else's spot.
Chaplin needed his coach Justin Rodman to convince him to play. On the day, Chaplin was solid across four quarters, starting in defence before moving forward and kicking a goal.
Devonport won 14 points over Ulverstone. Chaplin felt the honour should have gone to other players who'd put in more work, like Evan Lockwood, but the team showed their trust in bringing him back for the playoff push.
- 24 years old
- Chaplin's age
- 20 games for Tasmania Devils
- VFL games played this year
- 14 points against Ulverstone
- Winning margin
- 2021 and 2022 Magpies
- Chaplin's premierships
Why it mattersIt shows how individual players can make a big difference in finals footy, even when they step back in reluctantly.
AustraliaDevonport stays alive in Tasmania's NWFL playoff race after the victory, with a chance at a record sixth straight premiership.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 12 d ago
