IT was the most one-sided vote count in recent memory, as Ararat Eagles ruck, Jaydo Wright, romped to victory in the W.J. Lewis Medal count on Monday night.

Wright polled maximum votes 11 times, failing to poll in only one game – round eight against Glenthompson-Dunkeld, with the Eagles also on the end of two forfeits during the season.

The 21-year-old’s performance reflected the rise of the Eagles as a senior football force over the past 18 months, with the co-captain shocked to claim the Mininera and District Football League senior best and fairest award.

“I was pretty nervous as the rounds went on, I knew Anthony (Rosato) had a ripper year and (Michael) Lockyer kicked 100, but I knew I had a few good games during the year,” he said.

“We also had a couple of forfeits which I thought would really hurt me … but I still managed to get up there.

“I was rucking as a young fella and I always hated it, but I managed to get through somewhat unscathed.

“I think my development this year and last year alone was massive, I had some good coaching and good teammates around me really pushing me and making sure I got the best out of myself.”

Wright’s medal win sees him the first from Ararat to claim the best and fairest award, with his co-captaincy role playing an important part in his strong 2022 campaign.

“I was announced co-captain with Jack Taurau, we got appointed last year and we have been co-captaining all year again,” he said.

“It definitely puts a chip on my shoulder; if the team’s down because we aren’t going too well, I definitely feel it is not just Jack’s responsibility but mine to lead by example and give the right advice.

“I was just super happy I was able to stay consistent for the whole year.”

The 21-year-old also credited the club culture for his success, after turning the tide on and off the field.

“It is nothing short of remarkable, everyone is there for the club and everyone just wants to see the club do well,” Wright said.

“A few years ago we were a struggling club, we nearly folded and we were getting pumped by hundreds of points every game.

“It is an amazing story to read in the paper, but to actually be a part of it, it is remarkable.”

Wright finished 10 votes clear of runner-up, Anthony Rosato, and had the win sewn up by round 14 with an unassailable lead.

He also won the Ruth Brain Memorial Medal for the best Under-21 player in seniors.

Tatyoon’s Rosato was stiff to be well off the medal victory, despite polling 27 votes.

It is thought the 10-vote margin was also a record, but Rosato said he had no expectations going into the night.

“We put in the time and effort through the year and pre-season, and anything on top of that is a bonus,” he said.

“Jayden had a fantastic season, he plays great football and he only played 14 games, so he only missed out on a few votes during the season.

“I was happy with what I could put out there.”