Football
17 September, 2024
Pekin: It's all about the premiership
Nick Pekin was awarded best on the ground for his three-goal performance in Saturday's grand final, but for him, it's all about the premiership rather than an individual accolade.
His 11th win in 16 grand finals on Saturday made it extra special, as two friends from Sydney came down to see him play.
Greg and John, joined Nick to trek the Kokoda trail in April. Nick missed the round one clash against Noradjuha Quantong due to it and, after their bye in round two, returned against Edenhope Apsley, kicking nine goals.
It was special for them to come down to watch Nick play in another premiership. While winning the medal for best on the ground was special, Nick said it's all about the premiership.
"It's all about the premiership to me, as I don't play for individual accolades," Pekin said.
"I thought Jai Thompson or Peter Staude would win it, as I thought they played better than me and were more instrumental in the win.
"It was a shock when it was announced as I was out on the oval at the time, but the premiership is more important, and celebrating with the boys and getting the job done were the main focuses.
"To win again is a solid effort from Jai, the support staff, the coaching staff, and everyone else at the club. Many people do everything right, and the boys did the job for them."