RDFL 2018: Wallan midfielder Jesse Davies claims Bowen Medal
FROM motocross tracks to football fields, it’s proven the sporting change that was meant to be for Wallan midfielder Jesse Davies, who has claimed one of the Riddell District Football League’s biggest awards.
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WATCH Jesse Davies burst through a pack or sprint through the middle of Wallan’s Greenhill Oval and you will be impressed by his fearless approach.
The prolific Magpies on-baller has been one of the Riddell District Football League’s premier midfielders in recent years and a driving force in Wallan’s transformation into a finals contender.
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Davies’ impact was recognised when he was crowned the Bowen Medal winner for 2018, finishing three votes clear of Rupertswood’s Brent Swallow.
While he feels at home on the football field, giving an acceptance speech was another matter.
“I can’t even remember what I said and I haven’t watched the footage on the Riddell website because I don’t want to look at it,” Davies said.
The 26-year-old doesn’t have the sporting background of most league medallists.
Davies only started playing football about 10 years ago, having grown up riding motocross bikes.
“Getting a bit older, all my mates played footy and I just wanted to do something with my mates,” he said.
The Wallan faithful will be thankful Davies made the switch, although he still enjoys saddling up on a motorbike in his spare time.
Davies polled 27 votes, while Swallow finished with 24. Woodend-Hesket’s Daniel Toman was third with 19.
Magpies coach Daniel Nolan’s plan to rest Davies forward paid dividends as he kicked 21 goals in 17 games, including 13 to Round 5.
Davies said he was determined to ensure Wallan built on its return to finals and pushed for a breakthrough premiership next year.
“From where the club has been to where we are now, we are miles ahead of where we were,” he said.
“To take that next step next year, that will be something we all really want to do.”
Nolan praised the impact Davies has made since crossing from Essendon District club Craigieburn two years.
“I have known JD for a long time now, he is well liked around the club and I have a lot of respect for him. He deserves it,” he said.
It was a memorable awards night for Wallan, which was recognised as Club of the Year.
“We have a hard working committee, dedicated coaches, loyal supporters and a playing group who are extremely close,” Nolan said.
Nathan Fowler was awarded the RDFL Rising Gun award, while Chris Cameron was named Netball Coach of the Year.
Macedon’s Chloe Wilson finished eight votes ahead of Rockbank’s Rianne Vining in the A Grade netball Ryan Medal count.
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