THEY are the best of mates and the pride of AFL Riverina this week.
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Wagga’s Matt Suckling, Temora’s Luke Breust and Cootamundra’s Isaac Smith will chase history on the MCG on Saturday as they are part of the Hawthorn team that is out to win a third straight AFL grand final.
Suckling admits they share a special bond.
“It’s really special, we’re all really close mates and we’ve got that bond all coming from the Riverina,” Suckling said this week.
“We’re great mates off the field and we enjoy each other’s company on the field.
“When one of us kicks a goal we get pretty excited and carry on a bit.
“We’re looking forward to another big game this weekend and hopefully another medal.”
Smith and Breust will be looking for their third AFL premiership medal, while Suckling is chasing a second after he missed the 2013 premiership due to a knee reconstruction.
All three men can certainly not be accused of forgetting where they come from and take pride in returning home to see strong support for the Hawks.
“The last few times us boys have come back home we’ve heard that there are a lot of Hawthorn jumpers floating around these days,” Suckling said.
“I suppose when I was growing up, everything was Sydney.
“I don’t know whether (we have) had any impact but I’m definitely hearing a lot more stories of younger kids wearing Hawthorn jumpers, so if that’s got anything to do with us then I suppose that’s pretty special.”
Southern NSW AFL regional manager Jason McPherson said you could not put a dollar value on the impact the trio have had in the Riverina.
“It’s priceless really,” McPherson said.
“When you’re trying to promote the game, you couldn’t put a dollar value on it.
“If you could pay for it, you would.
“They’re local boys, they’re all neighbours to people who might not necessarily be into footy, but they’ll be watching the grand final to see how they go.”
McPherson said the trio are perfect role models.
“They’re outstanding, unbelievable role models really,” he said.
“All three have had to overcome a bit and show patience just to wait for their opportunity. It’s great for the Riverina and great for grassroots footy.”
