Versatile Crow Deni Varnhagen has taken out the 2019 Best Defensive Player for her pressure across half-back and through the middle this season.

A now dual-premiership player, she found her spark in her third season as a Crow, averaging a career-best 11 disposals, 2.1 tackles and 1.9 rebound 50s per game.

Spending a considerable amount of time on the wing, she provided an invaluable link from Adelaide’s back half to the forward lines.

Her efforts in the backline however did not stop the 26-year-old from having an impact up forward as she hit the scoreboard four times this season and delivered 45 inside 50s.

Ahead of the Crows’ Grand Final win over Carlton, Varnhagen shared her football journey, one she’s shared with teammate Dayna Cox ever since they were eight years old.

The long-term friends first played together at Happy Valley Primary School, as the only girls on the team, coached by current Crows General Manager of Football Administration Phil Harper.

Before they stepped out onto the big stage last Sunday, the pair reflected on how far they’d come.

 

Crows Women’s Best Defensive Player award winners
2019 – Deni Varnhagen
2018 – Sarah Allan
2017 – Courtney Cramey