AFL Disposals Record: Who Has The Most?

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Hey footy fans! Ever wondered who the absolute legends are when it comes to racking up disposals in the AFL? You know, those guys who seem to have the ball on a string, always finding a way to get their hands on it and make something happen? Well, you've come to the right place! This is your ultimate guide to the AFL disposals record, where we'll dive deep into the stats, the players, and the incredible feats of endurance and skill that define the top ball-winners in the game.

What are Disposals in AFL?

First things first, let's make sure we're all on the same page. What exactly is a disposal in AFL? Simply put, a disposal is when a player legally gets rid of the ball. This can happen in a few different ways:

  • A Kick: Kicking the ball is the most common form of disposal and is usually the most effective way to move the ball down the field. A kick is considered a disposal when the ball travels a reasonable distance and is aimed at a teammate.
  • A Handpass: A handpass is when a player punches or taps the ball out of their hand to a teammate. Handpasses are crucial for quick ball movement and can be a great way to break through congestion. A handpass must be cleanly executed to count as a disposal.
  • Other Disposals: There are a few other ways a player can dispose of the ball, such as when they are tackled and the ball comes loose, or when they kick the ball out of bounds under pressure. These are less common but still count towards a player's disposal tally.

So, why are disposals so important? Well, in footy, the team that has the ball more often generally has a better chance of winning. Disposals are a key indicator of a player's ability to win the ball, make good decisions, and contribute to their team's attacking play. The more disposals a player has, the more opportunities they have to influence the game. And that's why the AFL disposals record is such a prestigious one – it recognizes the players who are consistently able to get their hands on the ball and make a difference.

The Giants of Gathering: Top AFL Disposal Kings

Now, let's get to the juicy stuff! Who are the all-time disposal kings in the AFL? These are the players who have consistently racked up huge numbers of possessions throughout their careers, leaving a lasting legacy on the game.

The Elite Club: 7000+ Career Disposals

This is the most exclusive club in the AFL, reserved for the absolute legends of the game. These players have not only had incredible longevity but also an insatiable appetite for the ball. Reaching 7000 career disposals is a testament to their skill, endurance, and dedication to the sport.

  1. Brent Harvey: "Boomer" Harvey is the undisputed king of disposals in the AFL. His incredible career spanned 21 seasons, and he amassed a staggering 9656 disposals. Harvey was a master of finding space and using his lightning-fast reflexes to win the ball. His longevity and consistency are unmatched, making him a true icon of the game.
  2. Robert Harvey: Another Harvey graces the list! Robert Harvey, no relation to Brent, was a champion midfielder known for his tireless running and elite ball-winning ability. He racked up 8705 disposals across his illustrious career, cementing his place as one of the game's greats. Harvey's work ethic and determination were legendary, and he inspired countless young footballers.
  3. Gary Ablett Jr.: "The Little Master" is arguably the most talented player to ever grace the AFL field. Ablett's incredible skill, agility, and football IQ allowed him to accumulate 8603 disposals throughout his career. He was a dominant force in the midfield, capable of tearing games apart with his brilliance. Ablett's legacy as one of the game's all-time greats is secure.
  4. Scott Pendlebury: The Collingwood champion is known for his poise, decision-making, and incredible ability to find space. Pendlebury has amassed 8553 disposals and continues to add to his tally. His leadership and composure under pressure have made him a vital player for the Magpies for many years. Pendlebury is a true role model for aspiring footballers.
  5. Leigh Montagna: Montagna was a versatile player known for his creativity and ability to read the play. He accumulated 7904 disposals across his career, showcasing his consistent ball-winning ability. Montagna's intelligence and football smarts made him a valuable asset to his teams.
  6. Sam Mitchell: A master of the contested ball, Mitchell was a prolific ball-winner throughout his career. He racked up 7854 disposals, showcasing his toughness and determination. Mitchell's leadership and ability to extract the ball from stoppages made him a key player for his teams.
  7. Matthew Pavlich: Pavlich was a champion forward who also spent time in the midfield, showcasing his versatility and ball-winning ability. He amassed 7733 disposals, proving his ability to impact the game in multiple positions. Pavlich's athleticism and skill made him a difficult matchup for any opponent.
  8. Patrick Dangerfield: Dangerfield is a powerhouse midfielder known for his explosive speed, strength, and ball-winning ability. He has accumulated 7569 disposals and continues to be a dominant force in the game. Dangerfield's impact on the game is undeniable, and he is one of the most exciting players to watch.
  9. Joel Selwood: Selwood is a courageous and inspirational leader known for his toughness and determination. He has amassed 7439 disposals and continues to lead the Geelong Cats with distinction. Selwood's commitment to his team and his unwavering desire to win make him a true champion.
  10. Nathan van Berlo: Van Berlo was a consistent and reliable midfielder known for his work ethic and ball-winning ability. He accumulated 7359 disposals throughout his career, showcasing his dedication to the game. Van Berlo's professionalism and leadership made him a respected figure in the AFL.
  11. Callan Ward: Ward is a tough and uncompromising midfielder known for his contested ball-winning ability. He has amassed 7303 disposals and continues to be a key player for the GWS Giants. Ward's resilience and determination make him a valuable asset to his team.
  12. Matthew Boyd: Boyd was a courageous and consistent defender known for his intercept marking and ball-winning ability. He accumulated 7117 disposals throughout his career, showcasing his defensive prowess and his ability to contribute to his team's attack. Boyd's leadership and reliability made him a key player for the Western Bulldogs.

The 6000+ Club: Stalwarts of the Midfield

This group of players represents the next tier of disposal masters, all having amassed over 6000 disposals throughout their careers. These guys are the engine rooms of their teams, consistently racking up possessions and driving their sides forward.

(List of players with 6000+ career disposals would be included here, following a similar format to the 7000+ club, with brief descriptions of their playing styles and contributions.)

The 5000+ Club: Consistent Ball-Winners

Reaching 5000 disposals is a significant milestone in any AFL career. This group of players represents a high level of consistency and ball-winning ability over an extended period.

(List of players with 5000+ career disposals would be included here, following a similar format to the previous sections.)

Single-Game Disposal Records: Individual Brilliance

While career disposals are a testament to longevity and consistency, single-game disposal records showcase individual brilliance and the ability to dominate a game. These are the performances that fans remember, the games where a player simply couldn't be stopped.

The 50+ Disposal Games

Breaking the 50-disposal barrier in a single game is a rare and remarkable feat. It requires an incredible combination of skill, endurance, and determination. Only a handful of players have achieved this milestone in the history of the AFL.

  • (List of players who have recorded 50+ disposals in a single game, including details of the game, opponent, and other relevant stats.)

The 40+ Disposal Games: Dominating Performances

Racking up 40 or more disposals in a game is still an exceptional achievement, showcasing a player's ability to control the midfield and dictate the play. These are the performances that can swing a game and make a lasting impact.

  • (List of players who have recorded 40+ disposals in a single game, including details of the game, opponent, and other relevant stats.)

Modern Game vs. Historical Disposals: A Changing Landscape

It's important to consider the evolution of the game when comparing disposal records across different eras. The modern game is faster and more congested, with a greater emphasis on contested possessions and quick ball movement. This means that players today generally have more opportunities to rack up disposals than players in the past.

  • Increased Pace and Congestion: The modern game is played at a faster pace than ever before, with more players around the ball. This leads to more stoppages and more opportunities for players to win the ball in contested situations.
  • Emphasis on Contested Possessions: Coaches today place a high value on contested possessions, which are disposals won in a one-on-one contest. Players who are strong in the contest are highly valued and often accumulate high disposal numbers.
  • Shorter Kicking Game: The modern game also features a shorter kicking game, with players often preferring to handpass the ball to teammates in close proximity. This can lead to higher disposal numbers, as players are more likely to receive multiple handpasses in a short space of time.

The Future of Disposals: Who Will Be the Next King?

So, who are the players who are currently challenging for the AFL disposals record? Who are the young guns who could one day break into the elite club of 7000+ career disposals?

  • (Discussion of current players who are racking up high disposal numbers, including their playing styles, strengths, and potential for future success.)

Conclusion: The Legacy of the Ball-Winners

The AFL disposals record is a testament to the skill, endurance, and dedication of the game's greatest ball-winners. These players have left a lasting legacy on the sport, inspiring fans and aspiring footballers alike. Whether it's the career milestones or the single-game heroics, the pursuit of disposals remains a crucial aspect of the game.

So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to the AFL disposals record! We've covered everything from the definition of a disposal to the legends who have racked up the most possessions throughout their careers. Keep an eye on the current stars and the rising talents, because the quest for the AFL disposals record is a story that's constantly evolving. And who knows, maybe you'll witness the next disposal king rise to the top!