What Is 2013 AFL Goal of the Year

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2013 AFL Goal of the Year was awarded to Jeremy Cameron of the Greater Western Sydney Giants for his spectacular 60-meter running goal against Hawthorn in Round 21. The goal, scored on August 24, 2013, at the MCG, was celebrated for its length, speed, and precision.

Key Facts

Jeremy Cameron scored the 2013 AFL Goal of the Year during Round 21 on August 24, 2013
The goal occurred at the MCG during a match between Greater Western Sydney and Hawthorn
Cameron ran approximately 60 meters from inside 50 to score unassisted
The goal was selected from a shortlist of 10 by an AFL-appointed panel
It was officially announced as the winner in October 2013 during the AFL Awards ceremony

Overview

The 2013 AFL Goal of the Year was a standout moment in the Australian Football League season, capturing the imagination of fans and commentators alike. Awarded to Jeremy Cameron of the Greater Western Sydney Giants, the honor recognized one of the most electrifying individual efforts of the year.

Scored during Round 21 against Hawthorn, Cameron’s goal was a masterclass in pace, endurance, and composure under pressure. The award is determined annually by a panel of experts and celebrates the most skillful, memorable, and technically impressive goal of the home-and-away season.

Jeremy Cameron was just 19 years old at the time, making his achievement even more remarkable given his young age and limited experience at AFL level.
The goal took place on August 24, 2013, during a match between the GWS Giants and Hawthorn at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Cameron began his run from inside his own defensive 50, covering approximately 60 meters while evading multiple opponents to score.
His effort was selected from a shortlist of 10 nominated goals, each submitted based on criteria like difficulty, creativity, and impact.
The official announcement of the winner came in October 2013, during the AFL’s annual awards night, which honors excellence across multiple categories.

How It Works

The AFL Goal of the Year is determined through a structured selection process involving fan input, expert analysis, and official review. Each season, standout goals are nominated weekly, with the top 10 advancing to the final round of voting.

Nomination Process: Goals are submitted weekly by broadcasters and AFL officials based on visual impact, skill, and originality. Only one goal per round is typically shortlisted.
Judging Panel: A panel of former players, coaches, and media personalities evaluates the shortlist using criteria such as distance covered, defensive pressure, and technical execution.
Fan Involvement: Fans can vote online for their favorite from the final 10, though the panel retains final decision-making authority to ensure quality standards.
Final Selection: The winning goal must demonstrate exceptional athleticism, creativity, and rarity—qualities that make it stand out even among elite-level performances.
Announcement Timing: The winner is revealed in October, aligning with the conclusion of the AFL season and the presentation of other major awards.
Historical Context: Since its inception in 2001, the award has highlighted some of the most iconic moments in AFL history, including goals by stars like Gary Ablett Jr. and Lance Franklin.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2013 Goal of the Year with other notable winners from adjacent years:

Year	Winner	Team	Round	Key Feature
2011	Lance Franklin	Hawthorn	Round 17	Long-range set shot from 65 meters
2012	Joel Selwood	Geelong	Round 22	Running goal from defensive 50
2013	Jeremy Cameron	GWS Giants	Round 21	60-meter solo run ending in snap goal
2014	Patrick Dangerfield	Adelaide	Round 4	Multiple bounces and evasion in wet conditions
2015	Tom Stewart	Geelong	Round 11	Mark and long-range goal from half-forward

This table illustrates how the 2013 winner fits into a broader tradition of spectacular goals. Cameron’s effort stands out for its combination of speed, field position, and youth, distinguishing it even among other elite contenders.

Why It Matters

The 2013 AFL Goal of the Year was more than just a highlight—it symbolized the rising talent within the GWS Giants, a team still establishing its identity in the league. Cameron’s goal showcased the potential of young players and energized a growing fan base.

National Exposure: The goal was replayed extensively on sports networks, increasing visibility for the GWS Giants and the AFL’s expansion efforts.
Youth Inspiration: At 19, Cameron became a role model for junior players, demonstrating that young athletes can achieve elite recognition.
Team Morale: The moment provided a morale boost for a developing club, reinforcing belief in their long-term competitiveness.
Media Impact: The goal generated over 2 million online views within the first week, amplifying digital engagement.
Award Prestige: Winning Goal of the Year enhanced Cameron’s profile, contributing to future All-Australian selection considerations.
Cultural Legacy: The goal remains a staple in AFL highlight reels, symbolizing skill and determination in modern football.

Ultimately, the 2013 Goal of the Year endures as a benchmark for individual brilliance, combining athleticism, timing, and flair in a way that defines the spirit of the game.