South Fremantle star Renee Morgan accidentally crowned WAFLW Cath Boyce Rising Star instead of Peel Thunder’s Evie Cowcher

South Fremantle midfielder Renee Morgan, who is set to play in Saturday’s Rogers Cup grand final, was awarded the 2023 Cath Boyce Rookie of the Year award at the Dhara Kerr medal on Monday night.

But in a humiliating oversight, the award was intended to go to Peel Thunder defender Evie Cowcher.

As per the WAFLW rules and regulations, the Rising Star award is awarded to the player who polls the “highest number of umpire votes in the home and away season.” To be eligible, players must also be aged 21 and under and be competing in their first season of WAFLW league football.

Cowcher finished equal-fifth in the Dhara Kerr medal on 12 votes and was a clear winner of the award given Morgan polled only polled a handful of votes in her four league games at the end of the season. But in what the WAFC has dubbed an “error in the selection,” the award went to the Bulldogs young gun instead.

It’s thought the WAFC may have been under the impression that Cowcher wasn’t eligible. But the 15-year-old wasn’t old enough to play league football last year and spent the season developing in Peel’s Rogers Cup side.

Cowcher debuted for the Thunder in round one this year and was a revelation in defence, averaging 19.9 disposals across 12 games, including a career-high 30 disposal outing against South Fremantle in round 12. While Morgan, 16, debuted late in the season and averaged 18.8 disposals in six games, including the Bulldogs’ two finals.

As soon as the count concluded, members of Peel Thunder’s WAFLW program addressed the issue with WAFC competition managers. All week, the three parties have been trying to reach a solution, with joint winners believed to be one of the proposed outcomes.

But after being informed of the blunder, Morgan graciously handed back the award. Bulldogs CEO Cameron Britt commended Morgan’s selflessness and said the star midfielder has already turned her attention to Saturday’s grand final.

“We are disappointed by the award mix-up and while acknowledge it’s a mistake, it’s a really challenging situation and error thrust onto a teenage footballer that, frankly, shouldn’t ever happen,” Britt told CODE Sports.

“Renee has been mature and brave beyond her years, in surrendering the award and overcoming the disappointment. She remains completely focused on Saturday’s Rogers Cup grand final and playing her role for the team.

“The WAFC have apologised to Renee, her father and our club and we move forward from here with a premiership our sole focus.”

Peel Thunder declined to comment on the situation. But while satisfied the desired outcome was reached, it’s understood some members of the club’s WAFLW program believe the prestige of winning the award has been tarnished, given the recipient was interviewed on stage and the subject of celebratory social media posts.

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Cowcher will be presented with the Cath Boyce Rising Star award at the Peel Thunder’s Fenton Medal best and fairest function on Friday night.

“The WAFC takes full responsibility for this oversight,” a WAFC statement read. “Renee Morgan has displayed remarkable talent throughout the season and has shown true sportsmanship in a difficult situation. The WAFC thanks Renee and we wish her all the best in the Rogers Cup Grand Final this weekend.

“The WAFC commends Evie Cowcher for her exceptional performance throughout the season, showcasing great skill and dedication on the field. We congratulate Evie on this well-deserved recognition and wish her continued success in her football career.”