By Brett Kennedy
BY his own admission, Brad Close was far from a chance at Geelong Football Club’s 2020 Carji Greeves Medal presentation but the young Cat received a pleasant surprise during the evening.
Close was named Geelong’s best young player for season 2020, drawing rapturous praise from the 20-strong Cat contingent he was gathered with on the Gold Coast.
While several teammates had pre-recorded award segments for the virtual event, the North Gambier premiership player had not been approached and therefore had no expectations.
It was deserved reward for the 22 year old who played eight games in his debut season, amassing 70 disposals, laying 24 tackles and booting two goals – including an unforgettable first kick, first goal moment against West Coast.
The unassuming small forward said the award came as a shock.
“Everyone was happy for me, it was a bit of surprise,” Close said.
Close watched the medal count unfold alongside top 10 vote getters and fellow young Cats Jack Henry and Gryan Myers, before players gathered at a function later in the night where Close was able to congratulate winner Cameron Guthrie.
Now back in South Australia, Close will turn his attention to securing a contract for season 2021 and while a verbal agreement has been reached, he is yet to sign the dotted line.
Despite the unfinalized business – an impact of the AFL’s continued negotiations over list sizes and salary caps – Geelong has publicly indicated Close will be one to watch in season 2021.
It has been a confident booster for Close who is preparing for pre-season training from December 7, which could be altered depending on state border restrictions.
“We may continue training over here (South Australia) if we can’t get over (to Geelong) and back for the Christmas break,” Close said.
Preparing for a quick turnaround from the October 24 season decider to the first training session for season 2021, Close believes he and three SA-based Geelong teammates could meet to train together should border measures impede movement.
His training requirements will become clearer in the next week as Close prepares for a meeting with line coach and Cats legend Corey Enright to strategize his workload.
All players in the blue-and-white hoops will target a return to the grand final next season with Close motivated to reach football’s pinnacle after experiencing it from close quarters last month.
“It was great to be part of the experience of being around everyone and part of it all,” Close said.
“It wasn’t the result they we were looking for but as someone in their first year, that’s somewhere I want to get to.
“Being able to be around Gary Ablett Jnr for his last year was pretty special. It was a pretty nice moment with Richmond lining up after winning the flag, he is a well-respected player.”
Close will return to Mount Gambier next week in time for his father Andrew’s birthday, as well as his sister Emily’s 18th celebrations.
