Those fortunate enough to have seen Jack Martin in action for the Gold Coast SUNS NEAFL team this year have great reason to be extra excited about seeing the teenage sensation in action in the AFL in 2014. Martin terrorised opposition players this season, making seasoned AFL campaigners look second rate with his amazing skills and fearless approach to his footy.
The rookie ace has tonight claimed one of the Club’s highest accolades, named Gold Coast SUNS NEAFL Player of the Year Award.
Presented to the player judged to have made the greatest contribution at NEAFL level by the GC SUNS Development Coaches, Martin polled votes in eight of his 12 NEAFL appearances – including three best on-field performances.
It’s a mighty achievement for the teenage whiz kid, who fought off tough competition after missing the last two NEAFL Premiership matches of the season.
GC SUNS NEAFL coach Shaun Hart told goldcoastfc.com.au Martin was the deserved winner.
“Jack was rated as the stand-out player, in terms of his impact based on his performances and consistency throughout the year,” Hart said.
“He is a well-deserved winner and hopefully it’s a good sign for what might be a big 2014 to come.”
Possessing classy foot skills, fantastic agility with aggression and determination that belies his size, Hart said the SUNS prized midfielder had an uncanny ability to make his team mates better.
“He not only won his own ball but most of the time he defended with real energy and set up others for success.
“He demonstrated great leadership, even though he’s a quiet character – so he was a well-deserved winner.”