As Jack Steele hobbled up on stage to accept his medal at the 2019 Trevor Barker Award, he was itching to get back to his seat. 

He’s not one for the limelight due to his modesty, but his performance throughout the year was one that deserved to be applauded. 

It was another podium finish for the 23-year-old, who polled 151 votes in what was his best season to date.

Steele finished just one vote behind Portland product Rowan Marshall, while stand-in skipper Seb Ross took home his second Trevor Barker Award with 170 votes. 

Jack Steele accepts his medal after his stunning season in the red, white and black.

“It feels great to come third once again in the Trevor Barker Award,” Steele told saints.com.au. 

“A big congratulations to Rowan and especially Sebby who took it out, but I suppose you don’t really play footy for these sorts of awards – you just play footy to win and these things come along with it.” 

It’s symbolic of his approach on the field. 

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While Steele is content to forego the individual accolades thanks to his humility, there’s no denying the massive impact he’s had on Season 2019. 

The star Saint was one of the red, white and black’s most valuable players, building his game off the back of his physicality, pressure and unrelenting attack. 

A league-high 164 tackles from 20 games and an average of 27 pressure acts per game earned Steele the reputation as one of the toughest customers going around. 

The 2019 Trevor Barker Award top-three: Jack Steele, Seb Ross and Rowan Marshall.

An 18-tackle exhibition against North Melbourne in Round 16 was just one off the all-time record for the most tackles in a game, while sensational displays against Gold Coast, Carlton and Melbourne backed up his uncompromising hardness. 

Steele’s tagging continued to remain a hallmark of his game, with the midfield bull going up against the likes of Patrick Cripps, Ben Cunnington and Nat Fyfe to blanket their influence. 

For the No. 9, it’s just part of the job description.  

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“I think I had a good, consistent year,” Steele said. 

“I still think there’s a lot to improve on, but I’m looking forward to getting rid of these crutches and getting stuck into pre-season as soon as I can and getting to work once again with Brett Ratten.” 

Steele will be off crutches within the week following his knee stabilisation surgery and is expected to be on the move in two months. 

And when he does, there’s no doubt he’ll hit the ground running.