His influence on the game of AFL over the past 14 years has been almost unparalleled, and at 32 years old, he could be forgiven for starting to slow down.
But his outstanding skills, leadership and presence continue to leave their mark on the football world.
Black showed this season that he has very much still got the golden touch - with a career-high average of 26 possessions per game, and leading the Lions in disposals, contested possessions, goal assists, and inside 50s.
His commitment to his team and selfless play has earned him the respect of the football community, not least of whom, his teammates, and Black was duly rewarded for his ‘team first’ attitude at the Club’s Best and Fairest Awards, collecting the Players’ Player of the Year award.
The Players’ Player of the Year award is voted each week by the players, on who they feel best reflected the values they strive for as a group - with a great emphasis on acts that benefited the team as a whole and not the individual.
Black has won the award both times since its introduction in 2009, and Saturday night gave him the hat-trick.
“This award could have gone to a lot of other players - I think it’s been a very even spread throughout the year so I am very honoured to win this award,” Black said.
Black confirmed that he had no intentions of slowing down and would love to continue in the Lions’ colours for years to come.
“I’m just a sprightly young 32!” said Black.
“I’d love to keep playing - it’s been a great year and I’ve really enjoyed it.”
