GRAMPIANS’ Grace Potter has created history, winning the inaugural Gail McGregor Medal, as the Hamilton and District Women’s Cricket Association most valuable player for the 2023-24 season.

The award was incorporated into the P.F. Christie Medal dinner for the first time, with this year’s award being the first time the newly minted medal was handed to the winner.

It was a dominant season from the 15-year-old all-rounder, polling 20 votes to win by five ahead of last year’s winner, Tarrington’s Aisha Hendriks, with Claire Widdicombe from Pigeon Ponds third with 13 votes.

Potter said she was excited to win the award for the first time.

“It feels pretty good,” she said.

“It was kind of a goal, but I wasn’t expecting it.

“I think it is really cool that Gail has that role, the women’s association is getting bigger.”

Coming off a premiership last season, Potter was keen to keep playing locally.

“I had a good season, for A grade we were seeing if I was happy enough to play at Grampians along with Geelong.

“After a premiership last season, we just wanted to get the team together again and focus on that.”

Potter had a busy season, suiting up each week for the Pumas, along with Geelong, with Western Waves games thrown in as well.

The all-rounder also collected the representative player of the year award, and the 15-year-old said it was a balance to ensure she could play as much cricket as she does.

“I feel like it’s good that I like cricket, because otherwise I would be so sick of it,” Potter said.

“Driving wise, it is a lot, but you get used to it.”

Potter also holds an important role, supporting sister, Matilda, and Ella Jackson, who are co-captains of the Pumas’ A grade women’s side.

With winter set to give the Dunkeld-based junior a chance to take a break from cricket, Potter is already looking ahead to next season and setting goals for what she wants to achieve.

“I will keep playing at Grampians next season, hopefully win another premiership,” she said.

“Premier firsts is also my aim at Geelong for next season.

“I have got hockey season coming up, so I will stay fit during winter, then pre-season will start.

“I will have some sessions over winter as well.”

Potter said she was grateful for the support she got from those around her, as well as those behind the scenes which help to make the competition happen.

“Thanks to mum for driving me everywhere, all the coaches and administrators, because without them, we wouldn’t be able to play cricket here,” she said.