Guernsey TBA
Position Wing / On Ball
D.O.B. August 26, 1983
Height 187 cms
The first time I came to a training session at Noosa, I was early and I sat next to the only player there who was waiting for Thirds training to start at 4.30pm - one Michael Gafa.
At the time I thought that if all the blokes were as friendly and open as Mick that I would enjoy being involved at Tigerland and watching him mix with his team mates and all at the club I observe that enthusiastic, passionate, friendly bloke that just loves having a kick and a beer with his mates.
Born in Canberra but moving North when he was only 1 1/2, Mick's parent were like many of us who just couldnt stand another Southern winter and Mick and his twin brother and two older sisters shifted into Pomona before stays at Kooroy and finally Tewantin.
Whilst playing a few games of social touch football and a handful of matches with Noosa Pirates Under 19's, Mick hadnt played a game of AFL when he joined our Thirds team in 2007 where he subsequently won the Club's Best & Fairest in that year and again in 2008 as well as winning the League B&F as well. Not a bad little effort!
Whilst a staggering effort, Mick's mum is Alex Jesaulenko's sister so ability is obviously in the genes.
Whilst two season's in division 3 were enjoyable, at the start of this year the weight of people saying that he should test his abilities at a higher level saw Mick tell Ray Brown that he was going to have a crack at senior football and after a few games in the Reserves he got his first crack at A grade footy.
Mick says he noticed the intensity difference but also (as usual) saw the positive that when he led, usually the ball delivery was spot on and gave him maximum chance to get a possession.
He is also realistic enough to know that after only 4/5 matches that it will take a few more and more game time to fully raise his performance levels to the standard at Pineapple Cup level.
Off the field, Mick is a tiler and after finishing his own apprenticeship started out on his own about 4 years ago which has been a great move. DMG Tiling has been going really well and although a bit slower at the moment like most in the building game, is a credit to Mick and his definite business approach.
Not that Mick plans to be on his hands and knees forever as he has recently started studying for his Personal Training Certificate and at 25 (26 in August) is probably at the perfect age to embark on a career in this competitive arena.
Mick Gafa has shown a remarkable ability to take on AFL with his athleticism and keen attitude and in the same short time has become a well liked part of our Senior group. I for one hope that we can watch Mick continue to evolve and play his 50th and 100th games in the Tigers jumper in the years to come.
Last Modified on 26/03/2011 18:53