Jimmy Bartel plays his 300th game when the Cats host the Western Bulldogs at Simonds Stadium on Friday night. To celebrate his milestone, we look back on some of his finest performances ...
1. Round 5, 2002 versus Fremantle at Simonds Stadium
In just his fifth AFL game, Bartel showed off his immense talent by racking up 28 disposals and kicking two goals as the Cats thrashed the Dockers by 62 points. He was later rewarded with three Brownlow Medal votes.
2. Round 15, 2004 versus Collingwood at Etihad Stadium
In what was a breakout season for Bartel, he ran the Pies ragged on a Friday night at the Docklands, tallying 29 disposals and a goal as the Cats scored a vital win. The umpires were impressed, giving him three Brownlow Medal votes for his effort.
3. Round 3, 2007 versus Melbourne at the MCG
Bartel kick-started his charge towards winning the 2007 Brownlow Medal by destroying the Demons on a Sunday afternoon at the 'G. He finished with 35 disposals, six tackles and a goal as the Cats won by 52 points.
4. Grand Final, 2009 versus St Kilda at the MCG
Lenny Hayes dominated the early stages of the 2009 decider, racking up 11 touches in the opening quarter. But on a cold and wet afternoon, Bartel took on a sacrificial role, quelling Hayes' influence during the remainder of the contest and playing a crucial role in the Cats' famous victory.
Jimmy Bartel tackles Lenny Hayes during the 2009 Grand Final
5. Grand Final, 2011 versus Collingwood at the MCG
Perhaps the most famous performance of Bartel's career came on the last day of the 2011 season. Rotating between the midfield and half-forward, he amassed 26 disposals and kicked three crucial goals as the Cats won their third premiership in five seasons. Bartel's efforts during the second quarter, when Collingwood threatened to run away with the game, were vital.