Throughout September, lions.com.au will be reviewing the seasons of all members of our current playing group. Today we look at Dayne Beams' tremendous year.
#9 - Dayne Beams
2018 was a year of enormous challenges for Dayne Beams.
In a testament to his character and resilience, he had arguably his finest season at the Lions to date and earned plenty of praise for his openness in dealing with the passing of his father.
Despite relinquishing the captaincy role to Dayne Zorko midway through the season, Beams continued to be a leader for the Lions with his actions on the field. Stepping down from the role helped him focus on recapturing his best form.
In 21 matches, Beams averaged 29 disposals, five marks, three tackles, six clearances and just under a goal a game.
He kicked a career-high five goals in a huge performance against North Melbourne in Round 11.
In the last nine rounds of the season, he averaged 33.5 disposals a game and was one of the form midfielders of the competition.
Beams was included in the All Australian squad of 40 and must have been very close to making the final 22-man team.
He finished equal fifth overall in the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award. On nine occasions, Beams polled five Coaches Votes or more. Only three players polled five or more votes in more games than Beams: Patrick Cripps, Tom Mitchell and Max Gawn.
Three times in 2018 Beams received a maximum of 10 votes from the Coaches.
Beams scooped three awards at the Lions' Club Champion awards night: the Players' Player, Hyundai Fan's MVP and the Roar Deal Medal.
He finished just one vote behind Zorko in the Merrett-Murray Medal count and was awarded the Nigel Lappin trophy. Had he not missed the Round 3 match against Port Adelaide, he would have likely won.
During his acceptance speech for finishing second, Beams acknowledged he had thought about moving back to Melbourne but pledging his commitment to seeing out his contract at the Lions.
"I can't wait to see us progress as a footy team and a footy club and I know success is just around the corner," Beams said.
"That was a
"I love where we're going and I love you boys, so thank you very much."
To add one more honour to his stunning year, Beams also collected his third Marcus Ashcroft Medal for best on
Beams and his wife Kelly welcomed their second child into the world in late June, with son Carter joining their first-born, Ruby.
Coaches Comment - Dale Tapping Midfield Coach
"Dayne was right back to his best form from a few years ago. He had really good numbers and was always a strong presence around the contest with his ability to win the ball from congestion."
Senior matches: 21
