Broadmeadow Magic midfielder Jack Simmons says he could not have felt any happier after delivering a standout performance at Darling Street Oval on Sunday as he helped guide his side to a 2-0 championship victory over the Lambton Jaffas.
The 23-year-old rejoined Magic from Sydney Olympic this season after having completed a pre-season at Broadmeadow in the past, and he worked hard to become a first grade regular in a side that claimed the 2024 premiership/championship double.
The former Newcastle Jet played a key role in helping the club secure its second double in as many seasons and also clinch a place in the inaugural Australian Championship campaign.
Simmons described being awarded the D.G. Williams Medal for player of the match as an unbelievable feeling and admitted that he thought all of his teammates were worthy of winning the award.
“It’s unreal. I can’t really describe it,” Simmons said.
“We’ve worked hard all year for it and it’s finally paid dividends. I’m just so happy with it.
“Some of these blokes are my best mates. I wouldn’t trade them for the world. Wherever you go in the world, it’s about finding happiness, and I’ve found that here at Magic.
“I don’t know if it was my best performance today. It was definitely a group performance. I’m really stoked and really happy to win this (D.G. Williams Medal).”
“It was a bit scrappy out there, but a win’s a win. The Jaffas were quite physical, and we broke them down at the end of the game,” Simmons added.
“We’ve had a lot of injuries this year, and the younger boys have done well when they’ve stepped in. Today is another example of them proving themselves.
“Pre-season was very tough for us. Jimmy (coach Jim Cresnar) drills us, and it’s not going to stop any time soon, with the Championship coming up. But it pays off on days like today.”
Cresnar thought Simmons was outstanding in the decider and deserved the player of the match medal.
“Jack, not only did he win all his tackles and stick to the game plan, but he started controlling the game in the second half,” Cresnar said.
“Credit to him. He’s an exceptional player and I think he will do really well going forward.”
Simmons and his Magic teammates returned to training this week and are now looking forward to the opportunity to showcase their talents on the national stage during the Australia Championship.
“I’m looking forward to it. A few away trips with the boys will be nice,” Simmons said.
“More importantly, it will be a great stage for a few of us younger boys to show what we can do.
“We’re all looking forward to it.”
