Ask any Essendon player who they think 'sets the example' at their Club.

Ask them who best embodies what it means to be a professional. To prepare with consistency, lead with humility and constantly front up without fuss.

In all likelihood, Andrew McGrath's name is the first you'll hear - and ahead of his 200th AFL game, his flowers are very much due.

He's universally recognised as footy's quintessential good guy and one of its nicest characters, but it isn't a kindness that should be mistaken for weakness. McGrath has endured some of the most difficult circumstances for a first-year Captain in recent times but has been unwavering in his support for those around him.

"(Andy's) an incredible human who’s been incredibly selfless," his Senior Coach Dean Solomon told the media on Thursday.

"He's carried so much this year, so much responsibility within the four walls of our football club and he has been incredible. The support he's given so many players and staff through what has been a difficult time, he’s just led in an elite manner.

"It's been difficult navigating these 12 months, but he’ll be much better for the experience and (our leaders have) all grown a lot in that period of time. 

"It's critically important that we carry him off and then put him in the centre of that circle and sing that song on Sunday."

It'd be fair reward for a player who's given every ounce of himself to his Club from the moment he walked through the doors as its first ever No.1 draft pick at the end of 2016.

Although his Rising Star Award and four consecutive 22under22 selections (one of those as Captain) reflect McGrath's early ascent, it's his accolades within the four walls which have defined his impact on the Bombers' organisation since.

Most Courageous in a battling 2020 season. Recipient of the Staff and Trainers Award on three occasions. Back-to-back-to-back Best Clubman honours over his last three seasons.

McGrath gets the plaudits for his character but maybe deserves more for his toughness and durability. The only games he's missed since 2023 came courtesy of a broken jaw this year, which still could only keep him away for three games despite its severity.

Whether it's been as the athletic junior prodigy, the competition's standout first-year player, the exciting half back in the famous No.1 guernsey or the 42nd Captain in Club history, McGrath has always - and continues to - carry himself in a way that many should aspire to.

For that, Essendon will continue to thank him.