SFNL: Local footy superstar Jackson Sketcher has returned to where his senior career started

Local footy superstar Jackson Sketcher has returned to where his career started. He talks us through his decision and what he hopes to achieve in his new threads.

Sketcher celebrates a goal. Picture: Tyler Lewis

It was “always a matter of when” for Jackson Sketcher.

The damaging midfielder has returned to Springvale Districts, where he made his senior debut as a fresh-faced teenager 16 years ago.

He has drawn up a fine footy resume since then, highlighted by a Morrish Medal, various state-league stints, a Chandler Medal and an Eastern league premiership at Noble Park.

Sketcher was set to be the most prized recruit of this off season but ultimately opted to return to the club where his name is held in high regard.

“I grew up in nappies around there,” Sketcher said.

“My old man is a life member, my mum even played a one-off game of footy under him which was around 35 years ago.

“I have a history with my family down there, I got my first job through Robbie Burns who is a club legend, he took me under his wing and gave me an apprenticeship

“It could’ve been earlier, potentially, I stuck around at Noble while I thought we could compete for a flag but it wasn’t to be the last couple of years.

“I thought the timing was right, they (Districts) are not far off so if I can play a part in that, that would be pretty special.”

Sketcher looks for a target. Picture: Tyler Lewis

To make Sketcher’s signing at the Demons even more special, he is a one point player.

Club coach Kris Thompson thinks he might be the only active one-point player in the country after the junior club folded nearly two decades ago.

He joins the Demons amid their strongest point.

They’ve recorded back-to-back Southern league Division 1 finals appearances.

Sketcher hopes he can add to the Dees’ push for success.

Sketcher soars. Picture: Tyler Lewis

“There’s no guarantees (of success), the competition continues to grow – we haven’t won a Division 1 final so we’ll have to tick that box before we say ‘let’s win the flag’,” he said.

“But I will try do everything I can to get us in that position.

“I know the culture, I know what I am walking into and I love it.

“Three footy teams, nine netball teams, the club has come such a long way, I am looking forward to being a part of it … the joint is hummin’.

“It’s just a matter of getting that on-field success now.”

As for how long the 32-year-old has left? He hopes he’s got ‘a Vassallo’ in him.

“Hopefully I can do a Gav Vassallo and play for 10 more years,” he quipped.

The Dees have been long rumoured to be adding champion local footballer Kyle Martin alongside Sketcher but it is yet to be confirmed.