RDFNL leading goalkicker Jack Jedwab signs with Essendon VFL

After a breakout season, winning the Riddell District goalkicking award, Romsey’s Jack Jedwab is looking to take his game to a new level in the VFL.

Jack Jedwab in action for Romsey. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Romsey spearhead Jack Jedwab is looking to take his game to a new level in 2024 – VFL level.

The reigning Riddell District leading goalkicker has signed with Essendon VFL for the upcoming season.

He has been named in the Bombers’ squad to travel to the Northern Territory for a practice match against a NTFL representative team.

Jedwab trained with Essendon for much of last year without getting an opportunity.

Instead, he produced a breakout campaign that saw him boot 61 goals and win the Redbacks first league goalkicking award since 2013.

He would boot two majors in Romsey’s upset win over reigning premier Riddell in an elimination final and two more in a heart-breaking three-point semi-final defeat to eventual grand finalist Woodend-Hesket.

Speaking before flying out, Jedwab said earning an opportunity to travel to the NT had been a big motivation.

“We were told about the Northern Territory trip late last year,” Jedwab said.

“It was something to try and push towards, so to get a call-up was the aim for a lot of people and I’m really happy to tick it off.

“I trained most of the year last year but wasn’t actually listed and got asked to come back for pre-season.

“It’s been good, it’s been enjoyable, and been really good for my fitness.”

Jedwab said working under VFL coach Blake Caracella and assistants Cam Roberts and Michael Hurley had helped lift his game.

He’ll look to press his claims for a Round 1 VFL debut or continue his outstanding form with Romsey.

“I’m trying to learn what I can, the biggest thing is the finer details that don’t really get spoken about at local level and the fitness levels needed to play at the level,” he said.

“Hopefully I can play at least a game or get a couple under my belt and cement myself in the side.

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“I think we can have a really successful season at Romsey as well.”

Romsey has bolstered its side with several new recruits for 2024.

Ethan Beer, Aaron Flavel, Connor Bills (Gisborne), Oscar Schoor (Gisborne Giants) and Ash Millane have all come on board.

The Redbacks RDFNL season kicks off on April 6 on the road against Wallan.