by Ben Waterworth (Twitter: @bjwaterworth)
WHO was the best recruit in senior Division 2 footy in 2013?
A plethora of high quality players from other leagues descended on the EFL this season, making an immediate impact in their first year with their new club.
But who made the biggest impact? Who was the most influential?
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE VIA THE EFL POLL
Anthony Bernardo (Chirnside Park) – The young midfielder accompanied new coach Leigh Horsburgh from Buln Buln to his new appointment at Kimberley Reserve – and what a tremendous decision it was. Bernardo, a Noble Park junior with Division 1 senior experience, had a very consistent season for the Panthers, booting 24 goals from 18 games and winning the club’s Best and Fairest award. He brought genuine class to Chirnside’s midfield, constantly getting his hands on the footy and disposing of it efficiently.
Steven Pimm (Mitcham) – Is there a more colourful, eccentric character in the EFL? Nonetheless, Pimm’s outgoing on-field personality paid dividends in 2013. After a one-year stint with Dalyston in 2012, the full-forward returned to Mitcham this season and took Division 3 by the scruff of the neck. Pimm booted 69 goals during the home and away season, including a bag of 10 against Templestowe, to take out the All Trophies Goalkicking Award in Division 3. While he had awesome support from Pignataro and Hoegel inside forward 50, Pimm’s leadership should not have been underestimated.
Brad Hutchinson (Wantirna South) – The Devils’ favourite son returned to Walker Reserve in 2013 following a successful four-year stint with Stony Creek in the Alberton Football League. And what an impact Hutchinson made, winning the club’s Best and Fairest award after 26 goals and 11 mentions in the best players from 21 games. The playing-assistant coach provided his team with great experience and flexibility, with coach Matt Clark able to play him wherever needed. Hutchinson’s aerobic capacity, skill and passion make him one of his team’s most important players.
Nathan Thompson (Doncaster) – We all expected the big man to make an impact on Division 3. But not many would have predicted the former Hawthorn and North Melbourne forward to average nearly six goals per game come season’s end. Not only did Thompson provide the Sharks with goals and a genuine forward target, he also brought an aura and profile with him. He forced opposition coaches and players to pour significant attention and effort into him, assisting Muller, Gallace, Appleford and Annakis to break their chains. If he sticks with the Sharks in 2014, watch out!