Melbourne’s Kate Hore has capped off a stellar campaign, claiming the club’s 2022 AFLW Season Seven Best and Fairest award on Saturday night.

The Demons’ vice-captain polled 69 votes from 13 games to finish five votes clear of midfielder Tyla Hanks and earn Melbourne’s highest individual honour for the first time.

Olivia Purcell (61 votes) edged out Lily Mithen (60 votes) for third in the tight count, while Karen Paxman, Tayla Harris and Shelley Heath all shared a piece of fifth place with 56 votes.

For Hore, it adds to an outstanding season in the red and blue; her sixth at the top level and first in the vice-captaincy position.

The 27-year-old was ever dangerous up forward, adding 17 majors to her now 53-goal tally, while registering the most score involvements in the league. Her tireless work rate also saw her average 13 disposals, four tackles and three marks a game.

Hore, who became a two-time All Australian and premiership player last week, was crucial in defence when required too, showcasing her class, composure and versatility.

For runner-up Hanks, season seven marked yet another exceptional individual campaign.

The 22-year-old averaged 18 disposals and six tackles, while her clean skills and attack at the contest were standouts of her game. She played a pivotal role in the 2022 NAB AFL Women’s Grand Final with a 14-disposal, four-tackle game.

Fellow midfielder Purcell was just as impressive in her second season as a Demon, ranked among the best in the competition for average metres gained (291) and disposals (23).

Purcell, who returned from an ACL injury in February, was further recognised across the league, recording a top-five finish in the AFL Women’s Best and Fairest count and claiming a second All Australian selection.

Saturday night’s event not only concluded with a toast to vice-captain Hore, but also celebrated the Dees’ best campaign to date, which culminated in their maiden AFLW premiership.

The much-loved Rhi Watt was among other players recognised at the Arts Centre in Melbourne, presented with the Demon Spirit award for embodying the club’s values.

Melbourne AFLW Best and Fairest – Top 10

1^st – Kate Hore (69 votes)

2^nd – Tyla Hanks (64 votes)

3^rd – Olivia Purcell (61 votes)

4^th – Lily Mithen (60 votes)

= 5^th – Karen Paxman (56 votes)

= 5^th – Tayla Harris (56 votes)

= 5^th – Shelley Heath (56 votes)

= 8^th – Libby Birch (55 votes)

= 9^th – Eliza West (55 votes)

10^th – Sarah Lampard (53 votes)

Each player receives a vote from 0-7 after each game, decided by the coaching staff as a collective

Demon Spirit Award – Rhi Watt