Gold Coast SUNS recruit Claudia Whitfort has taken out the 2022 Coach’s Award, presented by TFH Hire.

Whitfort joined the SUNS from St Kilda ahead of the 2022 NAB AFLW Season and was injected directly into the midfield in her first season with the club.

The result was a career-best season for the 22-year-old, who played nine games for the club and averaged 14 disposals and four tackles per game.

The Coach’s Award is decided on by AFLW Head Coach Cameron Joyce and is awarded to the player who is most impressive in all aspects of the program – including on and off field, approach to improvement, performance and fitness.

Whitfort was also rewarded this year with selection in the final AFL Players Association’s 22Under22 team, recognising the best young players in the competition.