Star Brisbane recruit Lachie Neale has reflected on last year’s best and fairest night at Fremantle, a night he’s described as “bittersweet”.
Neale won his second club B&F for the Dockers last year, however he already knew he’d be departing in the trade period.
The 25-year-old said he was “nervous” in the lead-up.
“I was really nervous about what was to come. I had a pretty good feeling I’d be on stage at some point, whether it was first, second, third or fourth, I figured I’d be in the mix, so I was nervous going into it,” Neale told SEN’s Whateley.
“I absolutely loved my time at Fremantle and it was really hard to get up there knowing I’d told the club and spoken to them already about my situation.
“It was a tough night, but it’s a prestigious award and one I’m really proud of. It was a bittersweet night, but I haven’t looked back and I look forward to my next five years with Brisbane.”
Neale won the Doig Medal with 186 votes, well clear of David Mundy (164) in second place.
The midfielder has enjoyed his time in Queensland since making the move.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at the football club, it’s a great bunch of people who are willing to work hard to get to where they want to go,” he said.
“That’s not just the players, that’s the coaches, admin and everyone involved.
“It’s been a really exciting first few months.”