Max Holmes claimed his first Carji Greeves Medal, Geelong’s highest individual honour, in a ceremony at Crown Melbourne on Thursday night. Holmes secured the medal with 164 votes, edging out defender Zach Guthrie, who finished second with 120 votes. Jeremy Cameron, a previous Carji Greeves Medal winner, rounded out the top three with 118 votes.
Holmes had a standout 2024 season, playing every game and polling votes in 22 of them. The 22-year-old midfielder averaged 24.2 disposals per game and was recognized for his ability to gain meters, leading the AFL with an average of 560.7 meters per game. His offensive run and carry became a hallmark of his game, contributing to his team-leading stats in disposals, inside 50s, and effective disposals.
In addition to his midfield work, Holmes played across half-back, finishing third in the league for running bounces and achieving career-high clearance numbers. His impressive form earned him a spot in the 44-man All Australian squad for the first time.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 21: Max Holmes of the Cats kicks the ball during the AFL Preliminary Final match between Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on September 21, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
Zach Guthrie’s consistent performances throughout the year earned him a runner-up finish. Guthrie has been a mainstay in Geelong’s defense, not missing a game since 2022. He averaged a career-best 18.24 disposals and six marks per game across 25 matches this season. His defensive work and intercepting ability were key for the Cats, who recently extended his contract until the end of 2028.
Jeremy Cameron, who previously shared the Carji Greeves Medal in 2022, had another impressive season, finishing third in the voting. He kicked 64 goals, including nine in a standout performance against West Coast in Round 24. Cameron, who reached his 250th AFL game milestone in Round 22, finished second in the Coleman Medal race and earned his fourth All Australian selection.
Other notable awards presented on the night included the Tom Harley Best Club Person award, which was shared by Tom Atkins and Tom Hawkins, recognizing their leadership and embodiment of team values. Ollie Dempsey, the 2024 Rising Star, was named Best Young Player after a strong season, and Tom Hawkins was acknowledged for his community involvement with the Carter Family Community Champion award. Hawkins, who has been involved in numerous community programs throughout his 18-year career, was previously recognized with the same award in 2019.
Patrick Hughes was honored with the Little Vic award as the VFL team’s best first-year player, following a season where he played 17 games and averaged 12.11 disposals per match.
The Carji Greeves Medal recognizes the top performers based on votes from Geelong’s coaches, who assess player performances on a scale of 0 to 10. The final tally reflects the players’ consistency and impact throughout the season.
Carji Greeves Medal Top 10:
1. Max Holmes – 164 votes
2. Zach Guthrie – 120 votes
3. Jeremy Cameron – 118 votes
4. Tom Stewart – 117 votes
5. Tyson Stengle – 107 votes
6. Gryan Miers – 95 votes
7. Ollie Dempsey – 73 votes
8. Ollie Henry – 69 votes
9. Brad Close – 66 votes
10. Patrick Dangerfield – 65 votes
