The Alagich name is steeped in history at Adelaide United and Ethan Alagich added to the family story by winning the 2025 Aurelio Vidmar Medal.
Alagich capped a breakout season in the Isuzu UTE A-League with MVP honours on Wednesday night in Adelaide.
The 21-year-old midfielder is the third Alagich to claim Adelaide’s highest individual honour, after his father Richie Alagich took home the inaugural medal in 2003-04 before his aunt Dianne Alagich received the first ever women’s equivalent in 2008-09.
Ethan Alagich’s achievement further enhanced the family’s legacy at Coopers Stadium, where the talented Australian was the only player in the Reds squad to start all 26 matches in 2024-25 – missing just 23 minutes all season.
“Ethan’s had a fantastic season. He’s worked incredibly hard and just kept improving every week,” said Adelaide head coach Carl Veart, who departs the club after their season ended in an Elimination Final loss to Western United.
“What’s impressed me most is his consistency — he’s stepped up in big moments, shown real maturity, and has become such an important part of our midfield.
“For a young player to play every game and lead the league for minutes shows how reliable and driven he is. I’ve really enjoyed coaching him and watching his development, both on and off the pitch.
“To see him win this award — and to follow in the footsteps of his dad and aunt — it’s something really special, and I think the whole club is proud of what he’s achieved.”
Previous Aurelio Vidmar Award Winners:
- 2023-24: Zach Clough
- 2022-23: Craig Goodwin
- 2021-22: Craig Goodwin
- 2020-21: Ben Halloran
- 2019-20: Riley McGree
- 2018-19: Isaías
- 2017-18: Isaías
- 2016-17: Isaías
- 2015-16: Craig Goodwin
- 2014-15: Sergio Cirio
- 2013-14: Isaías
- 2012-13: Dario Vidošić
- 2011-12: Zenon Caravella
- 2010-11: Cássio
- 2009-10: Eugene Galeković
- 2008-09: Eugene Galeković
- 2007-08: Cássio
- 2006-07: Jason Spagnuolo
- 2005-06: Carl Veart
- 2004-05: N/A
- 2003-04: Richie Alagich
