Hawthorn livewire forward Nick Watson is one of seven brown and gold stars to poll coaches' votes following Friday night's 62-point win over Essendon at the MCG. 

Watson kicked four goals to go with his 17 disposals, six marks and five tackles, continuing his impressive start to the 2026 season. 

Tom Barrass was rated the next best with five votes following a masterclass in defence, while up forward, Jack Gunston stole the show with five goals, earning him four coaches' votes. 

Midfielder Conor Nash also received four votes for his 23 disposals, nine score involvements and game-high seven clearances. 

James Sicily and Jarman Impey polled three votes each, teaming up well in the backline with Barrass. 

Hawks Co-Captain Jai Newcombe also received one vote thanks to his 22 disposals, 10 score involvements and six clearances. 

Every week, the two senior coaches for each game give votes on a 5-4-3-2-1 basis, meaning 10 votes is the maximum a player can get in each round.

The player with the most votes at the end of the home and away season will win the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award.

See below for all the Round 1 votes. 

Essendon v Hawthorn

9 Nick Watson (HAW)
5 Tom Barrass (HAW)
4 Jack Gunston (HAW)
4 Conor Nash (HAW)
3 James Sicily (HAW)
3 Jarman Impey (HAW)
1 Zach Merrett (ESS)
1 Jai Newcombe (HAW)