Snowdogs Young Guns Shine in VAFA Best & Fairest

St Bernard’s are celebrating two of their brightest young stars, with Ben Sauro crowned the VAFA U19 Division 1 Best & Fairest winner and Alex Alessio finishing runner-up after outstanding 2025 campaigns.

The Best & Fairest results underline the incredible depth of youth talent at St Bernard’s. Sauro and Alessio’s success reflects both their personal dedication and the club’s focus on developing the next generation of Snowdogs.

Ben Sauro – VAFA U19 Division 1 Best & Fairest (17 Votes)

Joining St Bernard’s in 2025, where his older cousin and senior ruckman Matt already flies the flag, Ben wasted no time making an impact at the Snakepit. Slotting seamlessly into the U19s, he quickly established himself as a dominant midfielder-forward, polling strongly across the season.

Sauro played 16 games, kicking 6 goals and polling 11 Best Player votes, consistently driving the Snowdogs’ midfield efforts. His ability to break games open with speed, skill, and composure was recognised across the competition, culminating in him being awarded the VAFA U19 Division 1 Best & Fairest.

For a first-year player at the club, it’s a remarkable achievement and a sign of the bright future ahead.

Alex Alessio – Runner-Up Best & Fairest (15 Votes)

It was a double celebration for the Snowdogs with promising young ruckman Alex Alessio finishing runner-up in the same count. Alex has had a year to remember — pulling on the Big V jumper at U19 representative level, impressing in the Coates Talent League with Calder Cannons, and showing his capability in the Reserves, where he kicked 3 goals and earned Best Player honours.

Across 2025, Alessio played 10 U19 VAFA games for St Bernard’s, while also adding 6 Talent League games and his VAFA Big V appearance to his season résumé. His growth has been undeniable, showcasing his talent at every level he’s stepped up to.