JACK HUDSON
TANUNDA local and Port Adelaide champion Justin Westhoff has been nominated for the AFL’s Madden Medal.
The Madden Medal is awarded to the retiring player who best demonstrates on-field excellence, personal development and growth, as well as community spirit over the course of his playing career, and is named after two former AFLPA Presidents, Simon and Justin
Madden.
Westhoff is the second nominee to be announced after Geelong superstar Gary Ablett Junior.
The announcement said Westhoff, who was pick 71 in the 2006 AFL Draft, was popular among his peers.
“Westhoff was well-liked among his peers and considered an important member of the football club, including playing an integral role in the club’s rebuild and consequent 2020 resurgence,” it said.
“While currently studying his Diploma in Building Design Justin has also had a long-standing commitment to community engagement and service as an Ambassador for the Hutt Street Centre, which aims to end homelessness and provide hope and opportunity for people to rebuild their lives without judgment.
“Justin regularly volunteers his time in the Hutt Street meal centre, preparing and serving meals along with spending valuable time with those who are facing homelessness. 
“He has also encouraged his younger teammates to join him, exposing them to an issue impacting many thousands of
Australians.
“Justin also supports major fundraising events such as the annual Walk a Mile in My Boots which aims to generate $200,000 each year to support the 6000 people experiencing homelessness in South Australia.
“As a result of COVID-19, the 2020 Walk a Mile in My Boots was held in a modified virtual format.  Justin was instrumental in promoting and supporting the event which engaged 7000 people across Australia raising $600,000 – almost double that of previous years.
“In 2017, Justin launched Forage Supply Co. which promotes environmental change and sustainability. 
“Through Forage Supply Co. Justin is educating children through schools to learn to grow healthier produce, eat seasonally and live sustainably through school-based community gardens.”
The winner will be announced this week.