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Kirkwood’s Magarey Medal

Sep 02, 2014
Zane Kirkwood

Zane Kirkwood

Sturt’s midfielder Zane Kirkwood was the runaway winner of the 2014 SANFL Magarey Medal.

In the 18 minor round games Kirkwood polled 29 votes, nine ahead of his nearest rival, South’s Joel Cross on 20.

Pre-count favourite Steve Summerton and Norwood ruckman Sam Baulderstone were equal third on 15 votes.

The 23-year-old is the 14th Sturt player to win the Magarey Medal, joining Unley greats such as Len Fitzgerald, John Halbert and Damian Squire in winning the prestigious individual award.

Kirkwood started his football in Whyalla, with the South Demons, before moving to Clare and the North Roosters, and then played with the Pooraka Bulls in the northern suburbs of Adelaide.

“Dad was a police officer, so that’s why we moved around a bit,” Kirkwood said.

“I was always involved in Port Adelaide development squads from under 13s level.

“In 2007 we played in a (SANFL Under 17) Grand Final under Malcolm Maiden but we went down to a potent North Adelaide side.”

By round three of the 2008 season, Kirkwood had made his league debut against the Eagles at Woodville Oval, under Magpies great Tim Ginever.

The 178cm, 82kg Kirkwood played 85 games with the Magpies before moving across to Unley at the start of this season.

Amazingly over his past 39 games at both clubs, Kirkwood’s consistency has him among the best players for his side on an impressive 27 occasions.

“I thought I had a consistent year but I didn’t think I was outstanding. I was happy to play in a winning team and play finals,” Kirkwood said at last night’s presentation at Adelaide Oval.

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