Ben Simmons’ pre-game message for Christian Petracca revealed
Norm Smith Medalist Christian Petracca has revealed Aussie NBA star and childhood friend Ben Simmons’ special message to him before the grand final.
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Melbourne premiership star Christian Petracca said he reflected on his childhood as a Pies fan when he won the Norm Smith Medal.
The Demons midfielder thought of his childhood hero Scott Pendlebury who also achieved the premiership and Norm Smith double in 2010.
“I was a big Collingwood supporter and Pendlebury was my idol growing up,’’ said Petracca who had 39 disposals and two goals.
“Even when I got asked about receiving the Norm Smith Medal I reflected back to when he won his in 2010 and to have that accolade is something I’ll never forget.”
Midfielder Petracca said he was overwhelmed with pre-game well wishes including a message from his former junior basketball teammate, Aussie NBA star Ben Simmons.
“Ben wished me all the best and good luck,’’ he said.
“Travis Boak, someone I look up to and who is also part of the Red Bull family, he messaged me as well. Snowboarder Scotty James as well. The support has been so surreal.”
Petracca said he got some sleep on Sunday night after taking to the DJ decks through the day with teammates and staff at a private party organised by Red Bull.
The team is due to return to Melbourne on Thursday when he’ll reunite with family and girlfriend Bella Beischer.
“I’m feeling over the moon at the moment and I’m so happy to be part of this group,’’ he said.
“The last couple of nights have been full on as they should be. A few of the young boys have been pretty good, Angus Brayshaw, Max (Gawn) is a ripper to be around.
“I can’t wait to get home to Bella.
“It’s a frustrating time for our families that they can’t be here to share the journey.
“We’re happy we got the job done, people have sacrificed a lot for me and the team.
“Footy is such a selfish sport, you’ve got to be invested all the time and Bella has been an amazing support system for me over the last couple of years.”
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