With the season now run and won, the team at Cats Media cast their eyes over the current playing list and review each individual's contribution to season 2016.


1. Rhys Stanley

AFL Games: 21

Average disposals: 11.8 per game

Average marks: 3.7 per game

Goals: 17

Deployed forward at times and formed a handy ruck tandem with new recruit Zac Smith. The duo always came out even if not better. Had his best game in hoops against the Dogs in round 19 when he was unstoppable up forward with a bag of five goals.


 2. Billie Smedts

AFL Games: 11

Average disposals: 16 per game

Average marks: 3 per game

Goals: 1

Billie worked tirelessly at VFL for the first half of the year and was praised for his leadership as he fought for senior selection. Was rewarded with a call up for the round 10 loss to Carlton and was serviceable. Unfortunately sustained a leg break in the VFL in June.


3. Jimmy Bartel

AFL Games: 22

Average disposals: 21.6 per game

Average marks: 5 per game

Goals: 11

He’s built a career on versatility and 2016 saw Bartel used in a variety of different roles once more. Playing off a wing, up forward and even as a defensive forward on Hawthorn’s Josh Gibson in the qualifying final, Jimmy always brought something to the table in often testing circumstances and enjoyed a celebration befitting of a champion for his 300th game in round 19.


4. Andrew Mackie

AFL Games: 22

Average disposals: 18 per game

Average marks: 5 marks per game

Goals: 1

Ever reliable, Mackie brought up his 250th game in style collecting 26 disposals in a crucial away win over Fremantle. Maintained consistent form throughout the season and showed the way for younger types Ruggles and Bews.

 

5. Nakia Cockatoo

AFL Games: 10

Average disposals: 11.6 per game

Average marks: 2.8 per game

Goals: 11

Threatened to be the spark the Cats needed in a five-game stint at AFL level, having been suspended for the opening two rounds. Injured his knee and required surgery before returning for another five games only to succumb to soreness in the same knee. Played the year out at VFL level and will be eyeing off a big pre-season to cement his place.

 

6. Lincoln McCarthy

AFL Games: 19

Average disposals: 11 per game

Average marks: 2.6 per game

Goals: 19

An impressive season for Linc saw him named in the AFLPA’s 22under22 50-man squad. Finally overcame injury to play consistent games and brought not only goal sense and forward pressure but a real appetite for the contest. Kicked three goals in as many minutes to spark a Geelong comeback against the Saints in round 14.