Triple Doig Medallist Peter Bell was today named runner up to Robert Harvey as the 2008 AFL Players’ Association Madden Medallist.

The AFLPA Executive Committee had the tough task of splitting the exceptional field of 2008 retirees. Harvey edged out Peter, Shane Crawford, Scott West, David Neitz, Mal Michael and Nigel Lappin for the top honour.

The Madden Medal award recognises both the well documented on-field success but also the achievements that players have had in their community and personal development endeavours. The award, which is in its second year, is named in honour of former AFLPA Presidents and champion Essendon and Carlton players, Simon and Justin Madden.

Peter did however take the honours in the Open Universities Australia Personal Development Award ahead of Michael Wilson and Shane Wakelin.

It was difficult for the AFLPA to go past Peter, whose remarkable life and football journey saw him obtain a law degree from the University of Melbourne and serve as AFLPA President between 2002-2007, in between captaining a football club and winning AFL Premierships. Always a strong and articulate advocate for AFL players, Peter is currently CEO of Simpking International Consultants.

The winners of the awards were determined by the Executive Committee of the AFL Players’ Association who all cast votes on a 3, 2, 1 basis for each award.

The Madden Medal committee consists of the AFLPA Executive; Joel Bowden (President), Brett Burton (Vice-President), Luke Ball, Adam Goodes, Tom Harley, Nick Maxwell, Robert Murphy, Luke Power, Ashley Hansen, AFLPA CEO Brendon Gale, and past player representative Simon Madden.