2025 SANFLW Best and Fairest revealed in nail-biting finish at Adelaide Oval

Images: SANFLW

As we count down to what’s sure to be a totally thrilling finale to the SANFL Women’s League season, Zoe Venning of West Adelaide has been named the Best and Fairest for 2025, earning her the Hostplus SANFLW League Best and Fairest Award. Taking place at Adelaide Oval on Monday night, the event was a celebration of the league’s player achievements from throughout the season.

Zoe is the joint vice-captain of her team, and managed to edge out her closest competitor, South Adelaide’s Soriah Moon, by a single vote. The final tally saw Zoe secure 24 votes to Sarah’s 23. This victory was clinched in the final match of the season when Zoe collected two crucial votes, overtaking Moon, who did not receive any from the umpires in her last game.

Zoe’s consistent performance throughout the season was evident as she scored votes in 10 out of her 14 games, making a significant impact with averages of 26.4 disposals, 5.8 tackles, 5.1 clearances, and four marks per game. During Rounds 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, and 10, she was recognised as the best on field, really cementing her place as a leading player in the league.

Her football career, which began at Mitcham and then moved to Blackwood Football Club, has seen a steady ascent. Since making her SANFLW debut in 2019, Venning has played 85 league games, and this season’s award marks another highlight in her growing career.

The race for the 2025 Best and Fairest was tightly contested. Following Zoe and Sarah, retired Glenelg champion Jess Bates finished third with 20 votes, and Sturt’s midfielder Izzy Kuiper came fourth with 19.

Several other players were recognised for their achievements this season. Imogen Trengove from Woodville-West Torrens was awarded the Powerade Breakthrough Player. Christina Leuzzi, also from Woodville-West Torrens, received the Kia Coaches Award. The AAMI Leading Goalkicker Award went to Katelyn Rosenzweig of Central District, and Jess Bates rounded out her career with the SA Power Networks Leadership Award.

Throughout the season, each winner has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship, contributing significantly to their teams and the league as a whole.

As the SANFLW continues to develop and attract talent, the achievements of players like Zoe and her peers are indicators of the league’s overall growth and the increasing profile of women’s Australian rules football.

Click here to read article