Adam Marcon (pictured above) has produced a best on ground performance for Victoria despite its loss to South Australia.
Amassing 29 disposals and five marks, Marcon was awarded the Frank Johnson Medal for best Victorian player afield in a match that pitted the top VFL players against the SANFL’s finest.
“It’s obviously a huge honour and something I’m extremely proud to win individually,” Marcon said.
“I got the opportunity to meet Frank which was even more special and it’s a real honour to be named best on ground for the Victorian side. It was massive for me.”
“In terms of the standard of the game it probably goes up that level of intensity. It felt like once you made a mistake they really made you pay.”
Making the final 22-man squad from what began as a group of 40, Marcon took his opportunity on the big stage with both hands. Although only non-AFL listed players are eligible, the state match has a history of elevating mature-age players into the AFL spotlight.
“I was definitely aware of that. It [AFL] is still something that I’m striving towards. I’m hoping I can continue some good form over the duration of the year and hopefully make finals,” the midfielder said.
“It’s a personal goal of mine to hopefully get a crack at the big time.”
“Although it was a big game I don’t think I can rest easy now and just sit back. I’ve got to keep playing really well and there’s a lot of competition so my eyes are set on continuing to improve.”
During last summer Marcon made the switch from Northern Blues to Williamstown Seagulls, and is benefiting from the change in a stellar season so far.
“Last year was a bit of a frustrating year, it always is when you cop some injuries. I just needed a bit of a fresh start. Williamstown is a standalone club which offers some great opportunities that I’m experiencing now.”
Despite being a former Nothern Bullant player himself, Marcon’s father was more than content with the move.
“He’s happy if I’m happy. He’s behind whatever decision I’m willing to make. He still supports me at Williamstown and he was fine with it all.”
Marcon has also been actively involved with DFS as a coach for the past two years and says it’s something he attaches a lot of value to.
“I always love being involved with the DFS development programs and being able to help coach the training sessions. It’s really good to share my knowledge but also get back to grassroots footy and I also learn a lot in terms of what the kids see as the big aspects of the game at the current time.”
“It’s not all about teaching, it’s also being able to learn from other quality DFS coaches and also learning from the kids as well.”
Written by Lou Verga
