YOUTH is often the sign of a rebuild, but in the case of Muswellbrook’s Jeremy Smith it’s a sign of the energy and rejuvenation the Cats are playing with in 2018, that’s led them to their first-ever home semi-final.
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The 18-year-old wingman was one of the best at the weekend as the local side downed Singleton by 140 points, however the teenager admits he has nothing to prove to his opponents – and is just playing his natural game.
They may not be his rivals for much longer though as he hopes to move up the grades in the years to come.
“I’d like to be playing premier division next year, that’d be great but I’m really not quite sure at this stage, it’s all about finishing the season off strongly at the moment,” he said.
While Smith’s in just his first year of seniors, he has been an Aussie rules fan for a long time, citing his father as his main influence for following the game.
“Dad played it growing up, he’s from Victoria and that (AFL) really interested me, so I gave it a go and really enjoyed it,” he said.
He has idols in the AFL too, with Greater Western Sydney Giants star pair Dylan Shiel and Josh Kelly being two of his favourites, as well as Western Bulldogs premiership-winner Marcus Bontempelli.
Smith said he models his game after these players, who all have a good mix of inside and outside skills, but admits that he prides himself more on ball use.
“I’m a bit (more) tactical I reckon,” he said.
“I don’t mind going in and getting the hard footy but I’m a bit more of a skillful player trying to hit targets.”
Smith’s under no illusions about his size though, and knows to stay away from the on-field biff until he gets his strength up.
“I’d probably go around and get smashed a bit if I got involved, I’m too little so I’ll probably try to keep away from it for now,” he said.
With the Cats getting the opportunity to host a final for the first time on Saturday, Smith is aware of the occasion, especially against long-term foes The Entrance Bateau Bay.
“It’s a pretty big occasion for us, it’s a big day for everybody, so it’ll be good,” he said.
“It definitely special.
“They’ve obviously been big rivals with us for the past couple of years so hopefully we can come out on top.”
The game will take place at Weeraman Field on Saturday at 10am, followed by the women’s and Black Diamond Cup matches later that afternoon.
