AFL Disposal Record: Who Are The Kings Of Possession?

Hey footy fans! Ever wondered who the absolute ball magnets are in the AFL? Who are those guys that just seem to hoover up possessions game after game, racking up incredible disposal counts? Well, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the AFL disposal record, celebrating the players who've mastered the art of finding the footy and using it effectively. We'll explore who holds the records, analyze their playing styles, and try to understand just what makes them so good at getting their hands on the Sherrin.

The All-Time Disposal Kings

When we talk about the AFL disposal record, we're immediately drawn to the names that consistently top the leaderboards. These are the players who have built careers on their ability to win the ball and distribute it effectively. Their consistency and longevity are truly remarkable, setting a high bar for aspiring midfielders and ball-winners. Let's take a closer look at some of the legends who have etched their names into the record books:

• Brent Harvey: Affectionately known as "Boomer," Harvey holds the all-time games record, but he also boasts an impressive disposal average across his long and illustrious career. He was a master of finding space and using his quick hands to get the ball to teammates. His endurance and dedication to the game allowed him to accumulate a staggering number of disposals over his career. Harvey's impact on the North Melbourne Football Club is undeniable, and his disposal record is a testament to his consistent performance.
• Robert Harvey: Another Harvey on the list, Robert Harvey was a champion midfielder for St Kilda. Renowned for his incredible running capacity and ability to break tackles, Harvey consistently racked up high disposal numbers. He was a dual Brownlow Medallist, highlighting his dominance in the midfield. Harvey's relentless work ethic and determination made him one of the most respected players in the game. His disposal record reflects his ability to consistently win the ball in contested situations.
• Gary Ablett Jr.: "The Little Master" is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Ablett's incredible skill, strength, and agility allowed him to dominate games and accumulate huge numbers of disposals. He was a master of extracting the ball from stoppages and delivering it with pinpoint accuracy. Ablett's impact on the game is undeniable, and his disposal record is a reflection of his unparalleled talent.
• Scott Pendlebury: Known for his composure and decision-making, Pendlebury is a modern-day great who consistently accumulates high disposal numbers. His ability to read the play and make smart choices with the ball makes him an invaluable asset to the Collingwood Magpies. Pendlebury's longevity and consistency have allowed him to climb the ranks of the all-time disposal leaders. His impact extends beyond just disposals, as he is also a highly respected leader and mentor.

These players, and many others who feature prominently in the AFL disposal record lists, share common traits: exceptional endurance, superb skills, and an unwavering commitment to the contest. They are the engines of their teams, driving them forward with their ability to win the ball and use it effectively.

Single-Game Disposal Records: Explosive Performances

While career totals highlight consistency, single-game disposal records showcase those explosive performances where a player completely dominates the midfield. These are the games where everything clicks, and the player seems to be everywhere at once, racking up an incredible number of possessions. Let's look at some of the most impressive single-game disposal efforts in AFL history:

The single-game disposal record is held by Tom Rockliff, who amassed a staggering 53 disposals in a game for the Brisbane Lions against Geelong in 2011. This is a truly remarkable feat, showcasing Rockliff's ability to find the ball and impact the game. Rockliff's performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game.

• Others Near the Top: While Rockliff holds the record, several other players have come close to matching his feat. Matt Crouch, Lachie Neale, and Andrew Gaff have all recorded games with over 45 disposals, demonstrating their ability to dominate the midfield. These performances highlight the importance of endurance, skill, and tactical awareness in achieving high disposal numbers.

These single-game performances are not just about racking up numbers; they are about influencing the outcome of the game. Players who can accumulate high disposal counts are often able to control the tempo of the match and create scoring opportunities for their team.

What Makes a Disposal King? The Key Attributes

So, what exactly makes a player a disposal king? It's not just about running fast or being physically imposing. It's a combination of several key attributes that allow these players to consistently find the ball and use it effectively.

• Endurance: The ability to run all day is crucial for any player who wants to accumulate high disposal numbers. Disposal kings need to be able to maintain their intensity throughout the entire game, constantly working to find space and win the ball. They need to have exceptional aerobic capacity and be able to recover quickly between contests.
• Reading the Play: Anticipating where the ball is going is essential for getting to the right spot at the right time. Disposal kings have a knack for reading the play and predicting where the next contest will be. They can anticipate the movement of their teammates and opponents, allowing them to position themselves to win the ball.
• Clean Hands: Fumbling the ball is a cardinal sin for a disposal king. They need to have clean hands and be able to take the ball cleanly, even in contested situations. They need to be able to quickly gather the ball and dispose of it effectively, whether by hand or foot.
• Decision-Making: Knowing what to do with the ball once you have it is just as important as winning it in the first place. Disposal kings are excellent decision-makers, able to quickly assess their options and choose the best course of action. They know when to kick long, when to handball short, and when to take on the tackle.
• Tackling Pressure: It's not just about getting disposals; it's also about preventing the opposition from getting them. Disposal kings are often strong tacklers, able to apply pressure to their opponents and win the ball back for their team. They understand the importance of defensive pressure and are willing to put their bodies on the line to win the contest.

By mastering these attributes, players can transform themselves into disposal magnets, consistently finding the ball and impacting the game. It's a testament to their hard work, dedication, and natural talent.

The Evolution of the Disposal Game: Has it Changed?

The game of AFL is constantly evolving, and so too is the art of accumulating disposals. In recent years, we've seen a greater emphasis on handball chains and uncontested possessions, leading to higher disposal numbers across the board. Has the meaning of a "disposal" changed?

• Increased Handballing: Modern game plans often prioritize short, sharp handballs to maintain possession and move the ball quickly. This has led to a significant increase in handball numbers, with some players racking up more handballs than kicks. This tactical shift has undoubtedly contributed to higher overall disposal counts.
• Emphasis on Uncontested Possessions: Teams are increasingly focused on winning uncontested possessions, as these are seen as less risky and more likely to lead to scoring opportunities. This has led to players working harder to find space and receive uncontested marks or handballs. This focus on uncontested possessions has also contributed to higher disposal numbers.

While disposal numbers may be increasing, it's important to remember that not all disposals are created equal. A contested disposal in a critical situation is often more valuable than an uncontested disposal in the backline. It's important to analyze the context of the disposals and consider the impact they have on the game.

The Future of the Disposal Record: Who Will Be the Next King?

So, who are the players who could potentially challenge the AFL disposal record in the future? Which young stars have the potential to become the next generation of disposal kings?

• Emerging Midfield Stars: Keep an eye on young midfielders who demonstrate exceptional endurance, skill, and decision-making. These are the players who have the potential to dominate the midfield and accumulate high disposal numbers. Players like Matt Rowell, Will Phillips and Errol Gulden are all showing signs of becoming elite ball-winners.

• The Importance of Opportunity: Ultimately, a player's ability to accumulate disposals depends on the opportunity they are given. Players who are given more midfield time and are entrusted with greater responsibility are more likely to rack up high disposal numbers. It's important to watch which young players are being given these opportunities and how they are responding.

The AFL disposal record is a constantly evolving story, with new chapters being written every season. It will be fascinating to see which players emerge as the next generation of disposal kings and how they will shape the game.

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the world of AFL disposals, celebrating the players who've mastered the art of finding the footy. Keep an eye on those midfield stars, and who knows, maybe you'll witness the next disposal record being broken! Go footy!