Essendon crowned its best and fairest winners for the VFL, VFLW and VWFL squads at Rydges in the CBD on Saturday night, capping off the year for its state league sides.

Jackson Hately earned top honours for a second successive year with the VFL side after an imperious season in the midfield, with VFLW skipper El Chaston also going back-to-back for their efforts in 2025.

Caleb Logan and Ben Milton claimed best and fairests in the VWFL and CWFL (Wheelchair) sides, with the duo also taking home leading goal scorer awards for their respective outfits - Hayden Farley was named most improved after a solid campaign.

VFL Captain Xavier O'Neill was one of the busiest on the night, earning Best Clubman, Don of the Year and runner-up in the final count, with forward-turned-defender Tyler Sellers running third. Emerging talent Noah Scott earned Rising Star honours.

Gallery: Essendon's 2025 VFL/VFLW/VWFL Best and Fairest

All the images from the Bombers' celebration of their state league squads.
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On the VFLW front, emerging ruck Layla Prince tallied second with consistent defender Maddison Ford close behind in third, while youngster Lucy Thompson was named the side's rising star.

Forward Tia Davidge finished as leading goalkicker, with Christina Bernardi and Sarah Ford rewarded for their outstanding representation of club values.

Kellie Dadds and Ben Brennan were also recognised for their off-field efforts as support staff.

See the full list of winners for each program below.

2025 Essendon VFL awards

Best and Fairest - Jackson Hately
Runner-up - Xavier O'Neill
Third Place - Tyler Sellers
Rising Star - Noah Scott
Don of the Year - Xavier O'Neill
Jack Feain Best Clubman - Xavier O'Neill
Stevens Family Most Valuable Staff Member - Ben Brennan

2025 Essendon VFLW awards

Best and Fairest - El Chaston
Runner-up - Layla Prince
Third Place - Maddison Ford
Rising Star - Lucy Thompson
Don of the Year - Christina Bernardi
Best Club Person - Sarah Ford
Leading Goalkicker - Tia Davidge
Volunteer of the Year - Kellie 'Wheels' Dadds

2025 Essendon VWFL/CWFL awards

Best and Fairest (VWFL) - Caleb Logan
Best and Fairest (CWFL) - Ben Milton
Leading Goalscorer (VWFL) - Caleb Logan
Leading Goalscorer (CWFL) - Ben Milton
Most Improved - Hayden Farley