IT’S been four years since Brett Goodes last played for the VFL, but the memories remain vivid.
While the VFL came up on the short side when it ventured to the Adelaide Oval to play South Australia, Goodes counts the experience among his career highlights.
And this from a dual North Ballarat premiership player, and VFL Team of the Year (’08) member.
“It’s a fantastic concept,” enthused Goodes.
“For me, it is the next stage. Guys who been playing VFL for a long time, this – the State match – offers something more. You can rack up 100 VFL games, but the State match is something else.
“There is that incentive to play well and try to get to the next stage in your footy. The AFL might be past you, but to represent your State is a fantastic honour to have.”
Goodes said the honour of representing your State in football is something every player cherishes.
He added that apart from the NAB AFL Championships at Under 16 & 18 level there is no other opportunity outside the VFL to play representative football.
“It is something that VFL players can aspire to. The State team is the next step for so many players, it can be the ultimate for so many players,” Goodes said.
“Playing against the best from another State League is the biggest and best test you can get. It really challenges you; you get to step up again.
“You get to go out there and test your skills against the best opposition that’s available.”
Goodes also noted that the State match provides an opportunity for young players to showcase their talent.
He recalled how well Robin Nahas played in the State match against South Australia four years ago, a performance that won him the Frank Johnson Medal and months later a spot on Richmond’s rookie list.
“Robin played really well that day. He kicked four goals in a team that battled. I think that went a long way to getting him picked up by an AFL club,” Goodes said.
Goodes played on a half back flank in a VFL team that included James Podsiadly, Jason Cloke, Corey McGrath, James Byrne and Brett Johnson.
It was the first time Goodes had been involved in a representative team since Under 16 level and what particularly remains foremost in his memory is the friendships forged.
Goodes recalled that then Bendigo midfielder Marcus Marigliani caused him angst whenever the two had played against each other.
“The best part for me was playing with those guys and getting to know them. I made some really good mates,” he said.
“Marcus and I had this love-hate relationship on the field, but going on that trip I discovered he was a fantastic bloke and really got along with him.
“Just those friendships you make and seeing how other guys go about their preparation was really beneficial.”
Last Modified on 23/05/2012 17:21