Hannah Stuart’s superb VFLW season has seen her claim the Southern Saints’ 2022 Best & Fairest in a landslide victory.

The 28-year-old midfielder, drafted to St Kilda’s AFLW side last fortnight, polled a staggering 156 votes across the Saints’ 18-game campaign, doubling the number of votes of runner-up Grace Buchan (69).

Alexandra Hynes (63) squeezed into third off the back her powerful year in the ruck, with Winnie Laing (62) and duo Tayla Kearns (57) and Bec Neaves (57) finishing close behind.

Stuart was a vital cog in the Southern Saints’ push towards its maiden Grand Final berth, elevating her game to another level to transform into the side’s premier on-baller.

The forward-turned-midfielder led the VFLW for total disposals (405) by season’s end, averaging 23 touches, seven tackles and six clearances per game to further her case for a spot on an AFLW list.

Stuart also added to her night with the 2022 Coaches’ Award, before tying with Bec Neaves and fellow St Kilda draftee Deanna Jolliffe for the Sainter of the Year Award.

Charlotte Ryan received the Best Emerging Award, while trainer Elise Vadiveloo earned the Extra Mile Award for her extensive work during the year.

2022 Southern Saints Best & Fairest

1. Hannah Stuart (154 votes)
2. Grace Buchan (69 votes)
3, Alexandra Hynes (63 votes)
4. Winnie Laing (62 votes)
=5. Tayla Kearns (57 votes)
=5. Bec Neaves (57 votes)
7. Alana Woodward (56 votes)
8. Gabriella De Angelis (46 votes)
9. Deanna Jolliffe (43 votes)
10. Georgia McLean (40 votes)