Glenelg midfielder Luke Partington speaks affectionately about late father after Magarey Medal win
Glenelg midfielder Luke Partington was back at university after his Magarey Medal win on Tuesday, but spoke emotionally about his late father’s pride and how it would continue to drive him as he ponders another shot at the AFL.
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Magarey Medallist Luke Partington reckons his late father Brian would be enjoying a couple of reds “up there” and bragging about his son’s latest honour.
The Glenelg midfielder, who polled 26 votes to claim the prestigious award on Monday night, spoke with affection when he said his dad was always proud, was one to brag and was never quiet after a couple of beers.
Brian died in a mining accident in Roxby Downs in 2015, the same year Luke was drafted by West Coast from Norwood.
“Mum (Amanda) had a few champagnes at the Medal count, she loved it,” Partington said.
“I was so thankful she was there and experienced the night with me.
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“It was a great night and as for the speculation and being favourite, you are never quite sure.
“My number one goal this year was to enjoy footy. I ticked off that goal and the medal is a huge bonus and honour.”
With Glenelg in the preliminary final at Adelaide Oval on Sunday, there were was little celebration of the medal triumph and he was back at Flinders University for his teaching studies on Tuesday.
He still has ambitions to return to the AFL system, but is focused on ensuring he is establishing a career away from football as a back-up plan.
After six games in three seasons with the Eagles, Partington was delisted at the end of last season and he admits his passion for the game had slipped.
Congratulations to @GlenelgFC’s Luke Partington on winning the 2019 Magarey Medal, finishing with 26 votes. 🅠ðŸ¯@SANFL #7SANFL pic.twitter.com/TYd15f0oql
— 7SANFL (@7SANFL) September 9, 2019
Now he is keen for opportunities in the midfield in the AFL to test his game and have a serious crack.
“Hopefully my performances this year catch the eye of AFL clubs,” he said. “What will be will be, I’d love to get back there, but if not I’ll keep making sure I’m setting myself up.
“I probably did not have anything which stood out compared to other guys at the Eagles. I feel this year I have started to develop that.
“I’m getting something I had at 18 and that is being more explosive and taking the game on with run.
“My passion for the game probably was not there so in a way it is good to get back to Glenelg and find that enjoyment again.”