THE PLAYER judged to be best on ground in tonight’s game against Carlton will be awarded the David Parkin medal.
A Legend of Hawthorn Football Club and premiership coach at Carlton, Parkin has a long history with both clubs, which is honoured in the form of a medal awarded to the match’s most influential player in the rooms after the game.
Last year, Hawthorn’s Sam Mitchell was given the medal for his best on ground performance in his team’s 50-point win over the Blues in Round 14 at the MCG.
The recipient of the medal, as selected by Parkin must display the following qualities – leadership, presence, team values, performance in a team role and influence on the outcome of the game.
Parkin played 211 games for Hawthorn between 1961-1974 and was coach of the Club for 94 matches between 1977-1980. He captained the Club from 1965-1973 and was a member of the 1971 premiership side.
He also won the best and fairest award in 1965.
He coached Hawthorn to a flag in 1978.
Parkin then crossed to Carlton for two stints as coach – first from 1981-1985 for two premierships (1981 and 1982) before returning in 1991 where coached the club to a premiership in 1995.
He finished as Blues coach in 2000.
Hawthorn take on Carlton at Etihad Stadium tonight at 7.50pm.
