Zach Adams has been crowned the inaugural Cameron Baird Medallist after a commanding performance for Tasmania in the Devils’ Anzac Day VFL clash with Carlton at Ninja Stadium.
The intercept defender gathered 23 disposals, took 10 marks and kicked a goal in front of a VFL record crowd of 14,122 fans at the Hobart venue on Saturday.
The medal honours Burnie-born Corporal Cameron Baird VC, MG, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia for his actions in Afghanistan in 2013.
It recognises the Anzac values of courage, selflessness and service.
Devils chief executive Brendon Gale presented the medal to the 24-year-old, who wore number 33.
Adams kicked the only goal of the opening quarter and was a steady presence across the ground, providing one of the highlights of the night for the home side.
He returned to Tasmania in October last year after playing 19 games with SANFL club Central District.
His football journey has previously taken him to Melbourne and Adelaide in pursuit of higher-level opportunities.
Adams has also shown remarkable resilience, returning to the game after fracturing his C7 vertebra in an on-field collision and spending six months in rehabilitation.
He worked his way back through the TSL with the Tigers and earned selection for Tasmania in a representative clash against a combined NSW/ACT side.
Devils captain Robbie Fox was also strong with 24 disposals through the midfield, while the side enjoyed a purple patch in the third quarter with four straight goals.
Carlton ran out 25-point winners 14.9 (93) to 9.14 (68), with NGA recruit Jack Ison kicking four goals on a standout night for the Blues.
The Devils host Sandringham at UTAS Stadium in Launceston next week.
