The talent, commitment and achievements of retiring AFL players will be celebrated at the 2009 AFL Players’ Association Madden Medal on Friday, December 4, thanks to AMP.

West Coast Eagles star David Wirrpanda is among a host of retiring AFL players nominated for the prestigious awards, which aim to recognise individual excellence both on and off the field.

The awards feature four categories - GNC LiveWell Football Achievement Award, the Open Universities Australia Personal Development Award, the Steele Blue Community Spirit Award and the major award, the Madden Medal.

Wirrpanda is in contention for all four awards.

David Wirrpanda came to the attention of West Coast Eagles after a superb junior career with the Eastern Ranges in the TAC Cup.

A player with the ability to play at both ends of the ground, ‘Wirra’ made his name as a classy running half back, whose seemingly effortless runs out of defence and silky delivery forward was a trademark of the great Eagles sides.
 
Well known and respected for his community work in helping to improve the lives of young Indigenous Australians, David set up the David Wirrpanda Foundation, which he launched in 2005.
 
The proud Yorta Yorta / Yolugnu man was named the 9th most influential Aboriginal Australian by the Bulletin magazine in 2007 & 2008.
 
Retiring after playing 227 AFL games, life-after football for David will be dedicated by spending more time with his foundation and his young family.
 
The Madden Medal will be held at Atlantic, Docklands on Friday, December 4 from 12:00pm. Tickets are available to the general public.

For more information or to reserve a table, please phone (03) 8623 2800 or visit www.aflpa.com.au.