Frankston YCW champion Ash Eames to go around again in 2018

CHAMPION Frankston YCW ruckman Ash Eames wants the good times to roll on, confirming he will play on in 2018.

Frankston YCW champ Ash Eames celebrates the Stonecats’ grand final win over Bonbeach at Frankston Park last month. Eames will play on in 2018. Picture: Mark Dadswell

CHAMPION Frankston YCW ruckman Ash Eames wants the good times to roll on, confirming he will play on in 2018.

The 38-year-old, a key member of the Stonecats’ premiership four-peat of 2014-17, told coach Wayne Capp he is hungry for more success.

“It’s hard to retire when we are having this run we are on,’’ Eames said.

Eames has played in seven premierships with Frankston YCW in the past eight seasons and, while he will turn 39 during next season, he says he still has plenty to offer.

“(Pines player) Chewy Scanlon inspired me by winning the (league) medal at 39, nearly 40,’’ Eames said.

“It was a good effort.

“I got away with claiming to be 32 for a long time but it’s all sort of caught up to me. I think people are aware of how old I am now.

Ash Eames bursts through a pack of Sharks during the Peninsula league grand final. Picture: Mark Dadswell

“It’s going to be exciting next year with the new league, I’m looking forward to the challenge of playing against Sorrento, Frankston Bombers and Rosebud…’’

Eames said YCW’s willingness to help manage him throughout recent seasons has extended his career.

Frankston YCW's Ash Eames takes mark of the day in his best-on-ground performance in the 2014 Peninsula league grand final against Mornington. Picture: Gary Bradshaw

“They manage me pretty well. I don’t play every week now and I make sure I’m playing my best football later in the year,’’ he said.

Eight-time Frankston YCW premiership player Craig Nankervis is yet to decide if he will go around again, although it seems likely he will.

“I haven’t spoken to Nankervis yet,’’ YCW coach Capp said. “I’ll speak to him after Christmas.’’