Melbourne recruit Jack Billings says an injury-riddled two years haven’t dimmed his ardour for soccer as he hopes to play a key function within the Demons’ 2024 premiership tilt.
The former No.3 choose solely managed 11 video games in two seasons and struggled to interrupt into St Kilda’s aspect when match below Ross Lyon however sees a chance to play common senior soccer once more at Melbourne.
Billings’ begin to the season was derailed by a damaged leg earlier than a hamstring damage and damaged thumb adopted.
The 28-year-old loved a wealthy vein of type between 2017 and 2019, booting 50 targets as he averaged 23 disposals and 4 inside 50s per sport, however struggled for constant impression in his remaining years at St Kilda.
He mentioned fixed accidents had not turned him away from soccer and insisted his physique was feeling good heading into the Christmas break.
“I always find it challenging being out on the sidelines, but I’ve always loved the game and I think it’s probably in those tougher moments when it makes you reflect and think about why you do it all,” Billings mentioned.
“It’s the reason you commit your life to being a professional footballer – I’d say love of the game is what keeps you going during those times.
“I’m pretty hungry and motivated for next year and looking forward to being part of the Dees and hopefully contributing.”
Billings mentioned he had met with coach Simon Goodwin shortly earlier than the commerce interval and was eager on a transfer after 10 years at St Kilda however was at the hours of darkness over whether or not it will occur till the ultimate day of the window.
His relationship with soccer boss and former Saints coach Alan Richardson had been a think about his resolution, however he mentioned the principle motivation was how shut the Demons appeared to extra premiership success.
“I think the main one is where they’re at as a group. They’ve had some strong years the last few years and that’s pretty exciting, and my skill set and what I can bring, I’m hoping I can help the team going forward,” he mentioned.
Billings mentioned alternatives might current at half-forward, together with his foot expertise one thing the Demons sought out after struggling to create sufficient simple pictures at purpose regardless of no points holding the ball of their ahead half this season.
“(Based on) some conversations and training so far, hopefully playing in the front half, across half-forward, and even in the midfield,” Billings mentioned.
“Just bringing my strengths to the team – ball use, decision making, hopefully hitting the scoreboard, but being able to connect with our forwards inside 50 is hopefully something I can add.”
Billings didn’t take part a strenuous operating session on the Demons’ pre-season camp in Lorne on Wednesday as a result of soreness however mentioned he was simply being managed after a profitable block of coaching.
On Friday, the previous Saint will marry his accomplice, Sarah, to cap off a whirlwind summer season.
Captain Max Gawn additionally didn’t participate in drills on the bottom however educated with gymnasium tools overlooking the sector and was a vocal spectator after arriving on the camp late following the beginning of his second little one.
Premiership forwards Bayley Fritsch and Ben Brown, who each endured troublesome years as a result of damage, have been put via an additional excessive depth operating session on the finish of coaching and accomplished it strongly.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
