Bulldogs big man Free wins Simpson Medal in thrilling grand finalMonday, September 22, 2025 - 10:28 AM - by Jordan McArdle

South Fremantle ruckman Hamish Free has been awarded the Simpson Medal after a best-on-ground performance in the Sullivan Logistics WAFL Grand Final at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

Free led the Bulldogs to an epic two-point win over East Perth in a thrilling finish to the season, booting two crucial second-half goals to go with 19 hit-outs, 14 disposals and five clearances.

It capped off a strong first season back in the WAFL for the 27-year-old after a two-year stint with North Melbourne.

Free, who was adjudged best-afield by the umpires, was one of four players who polled three votes.

As per the WAFL rules, the umpires' votes overrule in any event of a tie.

The following votes were awarded by judges of the Simpson Medal as best-afield in the Sullivan Logistics WAFL Grand Final at Optus Stadium.

Mitch Woodcock (The West Australian)

3: C Pearson (SF)
2: J Florenca (SF)
1: S Jones (EP)

Trent Cooper (Channel 7)

3: E Hughes (SF)
2: I Winder (SF)
1: J Baker (EP)

Umpires

3: H Free (SF)

2: S Jones (EP)

1: M Parker (SF)

Total votes:

3: Hamish Free, Chad Pearson, Scott Jones, Ethan Hughes

2: Isiah Winder, Jake Florenca

1: Matthew Parker, Jordyn Baker

*As per the WAFL rules, the umpires' votes overrule in any event of a tie.

Winner: Hamish Free (South Fremantle)