What an outstanding season midfield workhorse Brad Sewell had in 2012.
He was back to his best, back to the form that saw him crowned the 2007 Peter Crimmins medallist as Hawthorn’s fairest and best player for that year.
Sewell was as tough as he’s ever been, as clean with the ball as ever, he tackled ferociously, he cleared the ball from stoppages, he was a key player, an integral piece in the Hawthorn puzzle.
On top of all those elements that make up Brad Sewell, the midfielder added another ingredient to his already impressive game - attack when given the chance up forward.
When in a pressure situation, when the game is in the balance, Sewell can combine all the characteristics that make him a great midfielder, and use those to hurt his opposition on the scoreboard.
That fact is best illustrated when watching the final minutes of Hawthorn’s thrilling win over Sydney at the SCG. After Shaun Burgoyne put the Hawks in front, Sewell pushed forward from the center, gathered the ball, ran towards goal and roosted a 55m bomb that sealed a famous Hawthorn win.
A few years ago, Sewell may have looked to find a teammate rather than take on the responsibility himself. It comes down to confidence.
In 2012, Sewell certainly had confidence on his side from the outset, gathering 26 disposals and laying seven tackles in the Round 1 win over Collingwood.
Then, 32 possessions against Melbourne in Round 7 and 28 against Fremantle the following week, Hawks fans were again acknowledging how damaging Sewell can be when he gets the opportunity.
His best game came in Round 11, when he was best on ground for his defensive role on Port Adelaide’s Hamish Hartlett, while he also managed to gather 33 disposals and eight clearances himself.
His performances in the finals series were what all Hawks fans have come to expect from the gritty midfielder, and he was easily Hawthorn’s best over the three matches.
He gathered 33, 28 and 32 possessions in the three games and was a clearance machine in all three with six, seven and 11 in the Grand Final.
He was recognised for his performances throughout September by his coaches as the Hawks’ Best Player in Finals on Peter Crimmins Medal night.
He finished second in the best and fairest, recognition for his outstanding contribution over 25 matches.
He was ranked second at the Club for disposals, tackles, contested possessions and clearances - an outstanding season in all facets of the game and a year in which he can truly be proud of his efforts.
| GA | K | H | D | DE% | CP | UP | M | CL | T | I50 | G | PCM | |
| 2012 averages | 24 | 12.9 | 12.5 | 25.3 | 70 | 12.3 | 13.2 | 2.5 | 5.8 | 5.3 | 4.4 | 0.2 | 156 |
Sewell is pictured in one of his signature moves, putting his body on the line for the team.
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