James Hird's 2001 AFL Grand Final Runners-Up Medal

James Hird's Runners-Up medal, from the 2001 Grand Final; the medal showing two players with the MCG in the background, and text 'AFL Grand Final, 2001, Runners-up/ AFL'. Reverse has text, 'To reach the Grand Final, the ultimate event in a long, arduous, and highly competitive season, is a great achievement. Congratulations on behalf of the AFL. Ron Evans, Chairman, AFL Commission'. The medal is suspended from the original 2001 Grand Final sash and is accompanied by the box in which it was presented. Essendon 12.10.82 lost to the Brisbane lions 15.18.108. Essendon Captain James Hird was visibly shattered and disappointed in his post-match speech. This was Essendon's most recent Grand Final appearance.