Triple best and fairest winner Jack Steven has been recognised by the coaches for his exceptional return against Geelong, earning five votes from Alan Richardson and Chris Scott.
Unsurprisingly, Cats' captain Joel Selwood received a full quota of votes following his standout performance at Etihad Stadium, while Geelong's off-season recruit Zach Tuohy received seven votes for his work across half-back.
Steven, 27, returned from a punctured lung with conviction, gathering 30 disposals – 21 before the main break – 16 contested possessions, seven clearances (five centre bounce clearances), five inside 50s and 476 metres gained.
The reigning Trevor Barker Award winner was the only Saint included in the coaches votes, with Geelong midfielders Mitch Duncan (four votes), Mark Blicavs (three votes) and Patrick Dangerfield (one vote) filling out the remaining votes.
After five rounds, Adelaide midfielder Rory Sloane (33 votes) has taken the lead in the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year, ahead of Geelong skipper Joel Selwood (31 votes) and Port Adelaide midfield Ollie Wines (29 votes).
Round 5 AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Votes
St Kilda v Geelong
10 Joel Selwood
7 Zach Tuohy
5 Jack Steven
4 Mitch Duncan
3 Mark Blicavs
1 Patrick Dangerfield
