Yarrawonga's Hannah Symes takes out Toni Wilson Medal

Symes continued the club’s domination of the A-grade count on Monday night by polling 28 votes to edge out promising North Albury defender Nakita Singe by three.

They were level heading into the final round before the tall Pigeon was named best-on-court against Albury.

Symes said her victory came as a huge surprise.

“It’s very exciting,” Symes said. 

“It’s such a great honour and so amazing to be here with my teammates and family.

“I thought one of my teammates would take it out.

“I give all my coaches so much credit for this.

“They have all been fantastic.”

Remarkably, Symes is the seventh Yarrawonga player since 1993 to win the medal.

Laura Bourke (2015), Sarah Wollington (2011), Steph Tyrell (2006), Rachel Wild (2004), Brianna Cossar (2003), Tracy Gillies (2000 and 1997) and Renee Donovan (1988) have also been successful.

Symes took out the B grade best and fairest ahead of Mikaela Vaughan in 2009.

Her brothers, Brandon and Damon, play football for Yarrawonga.

“They stir me up more than anything,” she said.

“This might surprise them actually.

“I will be lucky to get a well done from them.”

Symes said the Pigeons were focused on reversing their narrow second semi-final loss to Lavington this weekend.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” she said.

“Hopefully this will spur everyone on with Caitlin (O’Dwyer) winning the B grade and Lauren runner-up as well.

“I hope that it adds a bit.

“Sunday is the focus now and hopefully we can get a win on the board.”

In B grade, Yarrawonga made it a fine double when Caitlin O'Dwyer romped to a huge win.

She polled 36 votes to finish 15 clear of Pigeon teammate Lauren Mulquiney.

Wodonga Raider Jessica Barton and Lavington’s Emma Merkel tied in C grade on 23 votes.

Raider Shanahan Raiders took the honours in 16-and-under from Wangaratta’s Tayla Allan.