Shepparton East’s Lauren James was a starring figure in defence this season.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
As the final leaderboard flashed on projectors at the GV Hotel function room for the Kyabram District League’s Warren Medal, two sets of cheers erupted across the spread of tables.
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In the front right corner, Shepparton East players and coaches beamed as premiership Eagle Lauren James’ 31 votes earned a claim to the mantle.
But it would be shared with her grand final opponent, Girgarre’s Allana Adams.
A vocal club all night, the Kangaroos’ voice reached full height as Adams’ name appeared as joint-winner for her prolific season in goal defence.
While it wasn’t the award and premiership double her fellow Warren Medallist achieved, Adams spoke with pride about her side, crediting her teammates for helping her forge a strong personal season, as the Roos fell one hurdle short of back-to-back flags.
“Not winning (the flag) was disappointing but Shepp East were the deserving team,” Adams said.
“This award really does come down to the team, though, like this isn't just an individual award, I think every single person in the team has helped me achieve this.”
Girgarre's Allana Adams is a joint Warren Medal winner.
Photo by
Rechelle Zammit
Earning a team of the year nod in 2024, Adams doubled up in 2025, but was named on the bench as her and fellow medallist James share the goal defence position.
It had Adams surprised by the result given her sub role in the team of the year, but she noted that a season of consistency on the court elevated her game to notch more best-and-fairest votes in 2025.
“Consistency, I think that's what I've struggled with the last few years,” Adams said.
“I was being worried I didn't have a consistent enough season, but obviously, I definitely did in the end, so that was positive.”
Likewise to Adams, James puts her award-winning season down to consistency on the court, and at training each week.
“It's amazing to win, we worked really hard all season,” she said.
“There's been so many good players, and even in our team, we've got a really strong group so I am surprised, but I'm really glad.
“Our trainings were so strong every week, just consistent, and it's definitely helped.”
James is the first Eagle to win the Warren Medal since Shepparton East relocated back to the KDL in 2019, while Adams is the first Kangaroo to stake a claim to the award since Holly Butler in 2021.
