Season in short:
Griffen announced himself as one of the competition’s elite in 2013. The 27-year-old's elite endurance, sublime skills and appetite for the contest saw him ascend new heights, ultimately claiming his second Charles Sutton Medal and gaining All Australian selection for the first time. Throughout his 20 games, Griffen averaged the most inside 50s in the competition, ranking sixth in the AFL for disposals per game and seventh for average contested possessions and clearances. His team lifting displays, including a 40 disposal, nine tackle, one goal effort against Port Adelaide, demonstrated a new inside-edge to his game to complement a formidable suite of skills.
Stat that mattered:
It is Griffen’s ability to better his already lofty standards that impressed in season 2013, finding two extra disposals per game and two more effective disposals. Even more remarkable was Griffen averaged almost two extra contested possessions – showing he is not only being more efficient with his ball use but he is also finding more of the ball inside the contest.
What they said:
“He’s (Griffen) come a long way with his leadership this year and really stepped up. People in the public don’t really see what he does around the footy club. He’s not one that does say too much, not overly vocal, but what he does on the field and the way he trains and takes his teammates with him – he’s very inspiring.”
- Daniel Giansiracusa, round 10 2013
Capping off his exceptional season, Griffen broke the Club record for most disposals in a game (47) against Sydney in round 21. The midfield sensation also polled the most votes of any Bulldog player at the Brownlow Medal – a career best 11 votes . His influence on game day cannot be discounted with his ability create inspirational passages of play and drive the ball forward, while also pulling his weight around the contest.
Season by Season
The top-shelf athletic midfielder had another excellent season, winning the Gary Dempsey Medal for third in the best and fairest award. Played in 22 games for an average of 24 disposals and ranked second in the AFL for inside 50s (138). In his prime as one of the AFL’s major playmakers.
