PHIL WALSH will be remembered with a commemorative medal at the end of Sunday's Showdown XXXIX.
The Showdown Medal will be renamed the Phil Walsh Medal in honour of the late Walsh's contribution to Port Adelaide as a life member and assistant coach over 11 seasons, and as senior coach of the Adelaide Crows in 2015.
The medal will be awarded to the best player on the field as voted by a panel of representatives from print, broadcast and digital media at the game.
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While the Showdown Medal has been renamed for Sunday's game with the agreement with both clubs, Port Adelaide chief exeuctive Keith Thomas says any permanent commemoration will be decided after the season.
“I’m sure Phil would be very proud of this tribute. He absolutely loved both clubs, having spent ten years with us at Alberton and then finding his way to West Lakes as senior coach where he was clearly making a huge impression,” Thomas said.
“I know whichever player is fortunate enough to be awarded this medal will cherish it like no other.
“That player will have to play in a way that Phil demanded. He’ll need to be tough but fair, uncompromising and consistent with his efforts all day and most importantly play a significant role in influencing the outcome of the game.”
“In saying that, it just felt right that we should honour Phil with a medal in his honour this Sunday given the genuine emotion that surrounds this game.
“Both clubs will discuss at the end of the season the most meaningful way to honour his memory [going forward].”
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Crows CEO Andrew Fagan said it made sense to rename the medal for Sunday's match.
"Walshy made a significant contribution to our club and his philosophies and values will continue to shape what we do going forward," Fagan said.
"He achieved the ultimate success with his friends at Alberton and while we reflect and celebrate his life, it is fitting that the Showdown Medal bears his name.
"The man himself used to demand his men get the job done and players from both teams will be striving hard to do just that. Whoever is fortunate to be awarded the medal is sure to hold it in the highest regard.
"Going forward we will work closely with the Power to ensure there is a long-standing and appropriate tribute to Walshy."
The Showdown Trophy will continue to be presented - along with the Phil Walsh Medal - after the game.
Port Adelaide also confirmed its home match activities would continue this weekend, albeit adjusted to embrace the Adelaide Crows supporters and players as part of a united tribute to Walsh.
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