Patrick Cripps

Australian Football

Patrick Cripps is a distinguished Australian rules footballer who has made a significant impact playing for the Carlton Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL). Born on March 18, 1995, in Perth, Western Australia, Cripps exhibited a natural talent for the sport from a young age. After being drafted by Carlton in 2013, he quickly showcased his capabilities on the field, becoming known for his powerful midfield presence, impressive strength, and exceptional work ethic.

Cripps’s career took off in 2015 when he won the John Nicholls Medal as the best player at Carlton, becoming the second-youngest recipient of the award in history. His continued excellence was recognized in 2019 when he won the Leigh Matthews Trophy, solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite players. Cripps has since established himself as a dual Brownlow Medallist, earning this prestigious accolade twice, along with being named a four-time All-Australian and a four-time John Nicholls Medallist, highlighting his consistent performance at the highest level of the game.

In addition to his individual accolades, Cripps has demonstrated strong leadership qualities throughout his career. He served as co-captain of the Carlton Football Club from 2019 to 2021, before becoming the sole captain in 2022. Under his leadership, Carlton has seen a resurgence, and in the 2024 season, Cripps had another standout year, averaging an impressive 8 clearances and 28.8 disposals per game. His contributions were further recognized as he finished second in several prestigious awards, including the AFL Coaches Association’s Champion Player award and the AFL Players’ Association MVP award.

As the 2024 Brownlow Medal night approached, Cripps was a favorite to win, and he did not disappoint. He tallied an astounding 45 votes, marking the most any player has received under the traditional three-votes system, securing his second Brownlow Medal. Patrick Cripps’s journey reflects not only his extraordinary talent but also his commitment to his team and the sport, making him a key figure in Australian rules football and a respected leader in the AFL community.