GEELONG superstar Patrick Dangerfield has broken through to win his first AFL Players' Association Most Valuable Player award after a brilliant first season with the Cats.

Dangerfield, 26, was the clear winner of the Leigh Matthews Trophy on 1092 votes. He finished ahead of former Adelaide teammate Rory Sloane (186) and Sydney Swans midfielder Luke Parker (93).

It has been a remarkable season for the Cat, who is also the overwhelming favourite to win the Brownlow Medal. He broke the record for most inside 50s in a home and away season, and was also among the top seven for disposals, contested possessions, clearances and goal assists.

He received the award in front of more than 450 people at Peninsula in Docklands from Matthews and Fremantle's Nathan Fyfe, who was named MVP in each of the past two seasons.

Richmond star Dustin Martin and Crows goalkicking sensation Eddie Betts shared fourth place with 90 votes.

"I'm very grateful to have been awarded the Leigh Matthews Trophy," Dangerfield said.

"To be named most valuable player by the guys I play against every week is incredibly humbling and an honour I’ll never forget."

Adelaide skipper Taylor Walker was named the best captain, ahead of evergreen St Kilda leader Nick Riewoldt and Greater Western Sydney co-captain Callan Ward.

Parker was considered the most courageous player for the second straight season. Ward finished second and Richmond's Alex Rance was third.

Callum Mills was voted the best first year player, in front of Essendon's Darcy Parish and Carlton's Jacob Weitering. Fellow Swan Isaac Heeney won the award last season.

Marcus Bontempelli was named captain of the 22Under22 team, as voted by the fans. He filled in as skipper for the Western Bulldogs on two occasions this year.

The Cats superstar is a strong favourite to take out the Brownlow as well. Picture: AFL Photos

AFLPA MVP AWARD WINNERS AND VOTING

Most Valuable Player – Leigh Matthews Trophy
1. Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong) – 1092 
2. Rory Sloane (Adelaide) – 186 
3. Luke Parker (Sydney Swans) – 93 
=4. Dustin Martin (Richmond) – 90 
=4. Eddie Betts (Adelaide) – 90 
6. Alex Rance (Richmond) – 78 

Robert Rose Most Courageous Player Award Luke Parker (Sydney Swans)

Best First Year Player Award Callum Mills (Sydney Swans)

Best Captain Taylor Walker (Adelaide)