Jess Whelan wins back-to-back best-on-ground medals at 32
Wynyard's Jess Whelan claimed her second consecutive best-on-ground medal in the NWFL Women's grand final.
Jess Whelan proved the game has not passed her. The 32-year-old won best-on-ground in Wynyard's two-point win over Penguin in the NWFL Women's grand final on September 12.
Whelan was influential across half-back, setting up defence and launching attacks. Whelan has now won the award in back-to-back grand finals.
Earlier this season, she reached her 200th senior women's game. Whelan said she works hard each year as younger players push boundaries.
She plans to play on in 2027. "Once you find your home," she said of Wynyard, "there's no way I would ever leave."
- 32 years old
- Age
- 200th senior women's game
- Milestone
- Two points
- Winning margin
- Back-to-back best-on-ground
- Award streak
Why it mattersWhelan's second award shows experienced players can stay competitive in women's footy, challenging assumptions about age and athletic longevity.
AustraliaThe win highlights the strength of women's Australian rules football in Tasmania, where Wynyard and Penguin have dominated the competition.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
