But those who are hardest working behind the scenes and always go above and beyond the call of duty don’t always get the recognition they deserve.
That is why the Brisbane Lions place great importance on presenting the Marcus Ashcroft Most Professional Player at the annual Club Champion dinner.
The honour is named after Ashcroft who really set the standard in terms of professionalism and preparation during the Lions’ recent Premiership years.
In 2011, Lions Vice-Captain Jed Adcock received the nod for the first time after exhibiting all those traits which are highly respected within the Football Club.
Adcock’s near-faultless preparation saw him play 20 of a possible 22 senior matches this season, missing only Rounds 13 and 14 after a broken finger had deteriorated to the point where he required surgery.
He had previously played through severe pain with little fuss and conducted himself both on and off the field with the same determination that has become synonymous with his game.
But more importantly, the 26 year-old shouldered a great deal of the team’s leadership - both on and off the field - in the long-term absences of injured skipper Jonathan Brown and fellow Vice-Captain Daniel Merrett.
He quickly became accustomed to the role of ‘acting Captain’ and seemed to flourish with the responsibility.
Upon receiving the Most Professional Player trophy, Adcock paid tribute to the Lions’ Physical Performance Department who helped get him on the field most weeks.
“Thanks to all the conditioning staff - in particular Burts (Brett Burton) who has been fantastic for this Club in his first year,” Adcock said.
Adcock now joins a long list of winners who have all forged long and successful careers in the AFL.
It further proves the importance of being professional in this business.
