đŸ”„ The Night That Ignited a Firestorm

The 2025 Brownlow Medal should’ve been a celebration. Matt Rowell walked away with 39 votes—an incredible tally, second only in VFL/AFL history. But instead of fireworks, the night sparked fury.

All eyes turned to two things:

  • A mystifying snub of Nasiah Wanganeen‑Milera in Round 20
  • And another near miss for Nick Daicos, his third top‑three finish in as many years

By the time Rowell lifted the medal, fans and pundits weren’t debating his brilliance—they were questioning the system itself.

📊 What Actually Happened?

🎯 Wanganeen‑Milera’s Round 20:

  • 34 disposals
  • 6 clearances
  • 4 goals
  • Goal after the siren to win the game
  • 9 score involvements

The Saints came from behind to beat Melbourne. He was clearly BOG to most watchers. But umpires gave Jack Viney—from the losing side—the 3 votes. Nasiah got just 2.

😔 Nick Daicos: Perennial Bridesmaid

Another year, another heartbreak. 32 votes for the Magpies star. In his first 100 games, Daicos has polled more than 100 Brownlow votes—a stat shared by only four players in history. (AFL.com.au)

And still, no medal.

Embed from Getty Images

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 22: Nick Daicos of the Magpies looks on at the 2025 Brownlow Medal on September 22, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

🧠 The Problem: How the Brownlow Is Voted

Currently, three field umpires decide on the 3‑2‑1 votes after each match. They do not have access to any statistics—not even disposals or goal counts.

This “pure eye test” approach is now under scrutiny. As stats become more sophisticated and match broadcasts more transparent, the idea that umpires can get it wrong is no longer taboo—it’s front-page news.

🧭 AFL CEO Responds: Change on the Table

AFL boss Andrew Dillon has responded faster than usual. Here’s what he said:

“If there was a way we could acknowledge second and third … Nick Daicos has come top three, three years in a row. That should be celebrated rather than commiserated.” (7News)

He also confirmed the AFL would discuss giving umpires access to limited stats before they vote.

That’s a big shift.

“The leadership group from the umpires last year weren’t comfortable as it is, but we’ll have a chat with them in the offseason again.” Dillon told News.com.au. (News.com.au)

⚖ Debate: Evolve or Preserve the Brownlow?

💬 The Reformers Say:

  • The system is outdated
  • Stats should guide the votes—at least for context
  • Public trust is at risk if elite games like Wanganeen‑Milera’s are overlooked
  • “It’s not the best and fairest if the best isn’t rewarded,” said one Fox Footy analyst

đŸ§± The Traditionalists Fire Back:

  • The Brownlow is the umpires’ award. It’s subjective by design
  • Adding stats risks turning the medal into a glorified algorithm

đŸ§© What Comes Next?

With fan fury peaking and the AFL publicly engaging with change, the next six months could shape how the Brownlow functions going forward. Expect:

  • Off-season meetings with the umpiring group
  • Trial discussions around basic stat integration
  • Possible changes to Brownlow night format—such as formal podium recognition for 2nd and 3rd

🧠 Editor’s Take

The Brownlow doesn’t need to be reinvented. But it does need to reflect the game we see today—not the one played 50 years ago.

Stat awareness doesn’t destroy the magic. It makes it more accurate.

And players like Nick Daicos? They deserve more than a standing ovation—they deserve a fair shot at the thing they keep getting so close to.

📣 What Do You Think?

Is it time for Brownlow reform? Or is the mystique worth protecting? Join the discussion on BigFooty.com