Print this pagePort Adelaide Magpies on-baller Jeremy Clayton has all the tricks. His pursuit of the ball in packs is fierce and uncompromising, his defensive work is outstanding, he will run all day and he is a strong mark.
For a small bloke - 175cm and 75kg - Clayton plays well above his weight category. He is fearless. And the 2005 Magarey Medallist has had his talents again recognised with his victory in The Advertiser Player of the Year award.
Clayton secured the title when he polled one vote in the final round when the Magpies thumped Woodville-West Torrens to qualify for the finals.
He finished just one clear of Sturt's Jade Sheedy, Eagle Mark McKenzie, Central District co-captain Paul Thomas and last year's Magarey Medallist James Allan from North Adelaide. It is his second win in the prestigious award, having shared the 2005 title with Brett James.
"The season has been consistent for me," Clayton said. "I've had less bad games than in the past. It is definitely an honour to win the award considering the calibre of the players."
Clayton, raised in country Victoria before taking his football to Ballarat and Melbourne, has made a huge impact on the SANFL in his four seasons at Alberton.
And having announced his marriage to fiance Bethany Brealey for October next year, he has no plans to leave the Magpies.
"I have enjoyed it here. The place is what you make it," Clayton said. "I definitely like being at the Magpies."
Clayton seemingly lacks respect for his body in attacking the contest while his verbal exchanges with the umpires are well known.
While he has taken steps to cut down on his words to the men in white, he will never deviate from the courageous approach. "I was brought up in the country. The only way to play is keep the eye on the ball and grin and bare it," Clayton said.
Courtesy of The Advertiser
Story by Warren Partland