“Joffa” O’Connell and Terry Simpson (Assistant Coach) had the unenviable task of forming a competitive senior side when the Lakers were formed in 1995.

A brilliant player in his own right, Joffa led the club to a final series in its first year and to grand finals in 1996 and 1997.

He was a fantastic leader on the ground and had the ability to draw the maximum effort from all his players regardless of their ability. He is one of the few genuine country football legends and has the honour of being the most capped BFL inter league player in the league’s history as well being the club best and fairest winner on four occasions. His committed, eyes only for the ball approach, and his ability to play with injury or under adversity make him the role model after whom the term ‘Lakers Spirit’ was coined.

‘Joffa’s’ conduct as a player and a person, his inspirational leadership abilities and his input into developing a club culture which is second to none made the naming of the club’s highest award in his honour an easy exercise.

Winning the Peter O’Connell Medal is far more prestigious than a club Best and Fairest.