Luke Jarrad to achieve 200-game milestone for Eagles in SANFL
AS Woodville-West Torrens’ Luke Jarrad noted, achieving the 200-game milestone is a huge honour considering he expected be playing in the SANFL for only two years.
AS Woodville-West Torrens’ Luke Jarrad noted, achieving the 200-game milestone is a huge honour considering he expected be playing in the SANFL for only two years.
Jarrad joined the Eagles from VFL club Williamstown in 2006 on a two-year contract. Williamstown, coached by current South Adelaide boss Brad Gotch back then when affiliated with Collingwood, had few spots available because of the Magpies’ needs and Jarrad chased opportunities in Adelaide.
Central District and South Adelaide were the only clubs not to receive a letter from Jarrad indicating his interesting in moving to South Adelaide. Location was the reason the Bulldogs and Panthers did not get mail.
A few clubs responded to Jarrad while North Adelaide officials travelled to Victoria for a chat. But it was the Eagles who showed most interest and earned his signature.
Ten seasons later, with two premierships and 199 league games with the Eagles on his resume, Jarrad has no plans to leave the state. The long-kicking left footer will achieve another outstanding feat and gain SANFL player life membership Saturday when he fronts the Bulldogs for his 200th game.
“It’s a big honour to make it that far, especially when I came over in 2006 for two years,’’ Jarrad said. “The Eagles put in a bit of time and made me feel welcome — it is a great club.
“The club has looked after me and made me feel comfortable.’’
Jarrad’s life is dominated by the Eagles, having taken on the role of marketing manager at the club as he builds an administration career in the football world.
The Eagles have already tasted success against the Bulldogs this season, having ended an 11-year losing streak in Elizabeth when triumphant by 40 points in four. So it was Jarrad’s first win at the ground.
While the Eagles have claimed their past eight games, the Bulldogs are coming off a 99-point thumping of the Roosters although they will confront a much, much tougher obstacle.
How will the Roosters respond to that insipid performance? Interim coach Michael Handby was true to his word when he said there would be wholesale changes to the side to face West Adelaide at Prospect Oval Saturday although five were forced because of injury.
State under 18 team member Jack Graham, 17, will make his league debut for the Roosters after impressing in the reserves.
Sturt can close the gap to just one point on the ladder to fifth-placed South Adelaide with a win over the Panthers in Unley Saturday.