2026 Neil Bencraft Best and Fairest Preview
03/09/2026
The first season as a standalone VFL side after 25 years in an alignment, this season was packed with countless highlights and memorable moments. Heading into our Neil Bencraft Best and Fairest this Friday night, we’ve taken a look at some of the key players in contention for the award.
Nathan Philactides
With previous VFL experience, Philactides has been a gun of a player this year as a key half-back, but doesn't shy away from have an impact across the ground.
He consistently won the ball, with an average of 23 disposals a game, and his ability to read the play seamlessly allowed him to find ways to influence the game. His composure and willingness to put his body on the line were key features of his game all year.
Philactides' 2026 campaign, his first in the yellow, black and blue, has been a hit and he is definitely one to watch in the vote count this year.
Kynan Brown
Brown has been a strong contributor for the Zebs throughout the 2026 VFL season, consistently bringing energy, competitiveness and a willingness to work hard for his teammates. His ability to impact contests and play his role both offensively and defensively has made him a valuable part of the Zebras’ lineup.
Throughout the season, Brown has had an average of 26 disposals and six tackles to his name. Being competitive at ground level and making smart decisions has allowed him to influence games in a number of different ways.
Despite being injured for part of the season and only featuring in seven games, he racked up 30 disposals in three separate games, making him a strong contender for the Best and Fairest.
Darcy Chirgwin
After a stellar season with University Blues in 2025, being one of VAFA’s most dominant players in the comp, Chirgwin has been one of the most powerful midfielders in our side this year, making him valuable not only offensively but defensively.
He created multiple opportunities across the field, with an average of 23 disposals per game, and featured in all 18 games of the season. He showcased his versatility through his defensive pressure and his score involvements, and even managed to add 16 goals to his name for the season.
With such an impressive season under his belt, it would come as no surprise if we were to see Chirgwin poll high in most, if not every, round.
Daniel Pinter
Could our ruckman possibly be crowned the Best and Fairest this year? In his first season at the Zebs, he has been one of our standout performers week in, week out.
The 20-year-old has grown and learnt so much this year and it shows in his consistent contribution over his 17 matches, averaging 23 hit-outs and 16 disposals.
His stature of 199cm created headaches for the opposition, not only in the ruck contest but also in the forward line, with six goals to his name.
Noah Yze
Yze has had a tremendous 2026 season, emerging as one of our most dangerous players in the forward half. His speed and forward craft are a constant threat to any opposition player.
One of our biggest assets in the forward half, he has produced several standout performances throughout the season. His display in the draw against Southport was a perfect example of his impact, finishing the contest with three goals and 20 disposals, consistently finding ways to influence the game.
Yze’s ability to combine his clean ball use with genuine scoreboard impact has made him a player capable of turning a game in an instant, with some brilliant goal celebrations included as well. Yze has firmly put his name in the conversation about who will be crowned the 2026 Neil Bencraft Best & Fairest.
The 2026 Neil Bencraft Best & Fairest Night will take place at Sandy by the Bay this Friday evening. You can follow along to see who takes home each award via our socials.
Written by Jess Holland - Sandringham Football Club Media