Classy state defender and current deputy vice captain, Chad Harding, has claimed Perth Football Club’s club champion award, the Butcher Medal, for season 2003.

Over 180 people attended the Butcher Medal Awards night at the Club on Friday 3 October. Harding, who finished with 84 votes, 13 ahead of utility player Justin Sprigg, was presented with the Butcher medal by Silvia Foulkes, the daughter of Harry Butcher. West Coast Eagles squad member Damian Adkins was placed third on 54 votes.

Harding played all 20 games for the season, collecting the most disposals for the club with 455 at an average of 22.75. He also gathered the most Sandover Medal votes for the club with 14.  He finished in the top ten in the WAFL competition for handballs (172), kicks (283), tackles (74) and disposals. Harding expressed his appreciation of his teammates and support of the Club in his acceptance speech. He also announced his excitement and sadness in his future move to Melbourne to take up a job opportunity. Chad Harding, who has been with the Club since 1999, was doubly rewarded with his selection in the 2003 state team.

The Butcher Medal caps off an impressive season for Harding who has carried good form for a couple of seasons, with his consistent high levels of achievement making him one of the premier players in the competition.

Other awards given during the evening  were:-

The reserves’ Life Members’ Medal, that was won by David Holland from Brad McDonald and Damian McMahon.

The colts’ Past Players Medal, won by Brendan Jones in a big margin from Darrin Smith and Wayne Ryder.

The Vince Pendal Clubman of the Year, won by key position player Simon Rudd.

The Doug Buckingham Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding junior, which went to rising star Michael Johnson.

The leading goal kicker for the season was Chris Maguire, with Richard Kelly, David Hassett and Chris Bossong being recognised for reaching fifty games.

 Long time volunteer Gayle Rigby was thanked for her efforts by being presented with the Jack O’Dea Memorial Award for Club Person of the Year.

To cap off the season, Perth Football Club will be hosting a luncheon on Friday 24^th October to celebrate the victorious 1960’s premiership teams.  The lunch will feature guests from the 1960’s teams including Mal Atwell, Captain Coach of league side, Rob Wylie, Brian Cousins, Ray ‘Goldie’ Lawrence, Graham Ramshaw and Bob Shields. A panel of current Perth produced Eagles and Dockers players including Ian Miller, Darren Glass and Dion Woods will provide some extra lively entertainment.

Past players, members and footy fans are invited. Tickets are $60 a head all inclusive and are available from the club on 9362 4499.