Some of the Gold Coast SUNS most passionate fans turned up at Burleigh Heads this afternoon to welcome home the city’s first AFL Rising Star. 

Heading straight from Coolangatta Airport, Jaeger O’Meara headed beach to speak with local media and thank Gold Coasters for the overwhelming level of support and congratulatory messages he he received since being announced at the 2013 NAB AFL Rising Star.

Unsurprisingly, when asked about his season and Rising Star success, O’Meara deferred credit to his team mates.  

“Yeah I’m pretty proud, but I’ve had some help from my team mates this season so I’ve got to thank them for the Award.”

Despite looking like the “complete package”, O’Meara was firm in his stance for needing to improve his game next season.

“I’ve got a lot of work to do. I’ve only played one season of AFL footy so I’ve got a lot of improvement left in me, as does the team.

“Hopefully we can do that over the break and come back stronger next year.”

For now, O’Meara said he was looking forward to a well-deserved break.

“I think we’re looking forward to having a break, then come into the pre-season and keep improving.

“Other guys have been carrying injuries as well so it’ll be great to freshen up over the summer.”