Wills Wins Jack Clarke

Subiaco Colts midfielder Riley Wills has been named the joint 2023 Jack Clarke Medallist for fairest and best in the competition.

He shares the award with Perth’s Coen Livingstone, after the duo finished on the same number of votes.

The 19-year-old has dominated the competition throughout the year, averaging over 24 disposals per game from the midfield to finish third for total disposals.

Wills showed not only an ability to win the ball from the midfield, but showed how damaging he could be on the scoreboard with 12 goals in as many games throughout the home and away season.

He becomes the 13th Subiaco Lion to win the prestigious award, joining the likes of Laurie Keene, Adam Cockie, and Liam Hickmott

The Carine product’s strong form early in the season was rewarded with selection in the WA State 18s team.

He was also one of four Lions to be named in the WAFL Colts team of the year.

Having come through the pathway at the football club, Wills had his first taste of Colts football in 2021, playing six games.

He managed five games in 2022, with injury preventing him from playing a major role in the season.

However, he was able to get his body right for the majority of 2023.

Coach John Mansbridge said Wills has battled through adversity.

“Riley to his credit has had some injury concerns over the past couple of years and has really battled through to get some continuity with his body,” he said.

“Even at the start of the year, he didn’t get through a whole preseason but came good around late January, early February.

“To get to where he’s gotten, it’s a credit to him.”