James Hird was back to his career best form in 2003. Despite missing six games with injury, he was only three votes short of winning his second Brownlow Medal. Hird showed tremendous on-field leadership again this season and was inspirational in a number of Essendon's victories, including the 66-point win against Collingwood on Anzac Day where he was awarded the Anzac Day medal for his best on ground performance. Hird's ability to find the football and tireless work rate made him a key asset in Essendon's team this season. Click here to rank James Hird’s season.