THE sky’s the limit for all involved with the Western Jets, who in recent times have become a rich talent source for AFL clubs to tap.
That reputation has been a long time in the making and now extends both on and off the field.
Jets coach Steven Kretiuk has implored everyone in the blue and gold of the Jets to think big picture and strive for the professional ranks.
“We haven’t had enough recognition in the past,” he said.
“We’re producing good players and coaches and people to go up to AFL level.”
That has never been in sharper focus than in the NAB Cup.
The Jets have a coach, captain, assistant coaches, fitness and a host of playing plying their trade at the upper echelon.
Mark Neeld, who had a coaching apprenticeship with the Jets, has taken the coaching reins at Melbourne.
He led the Demons to victory over Collingwood at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.
“There are some excellent ex-Jets coaches and fitness staff involved in the AFL this year,” Kretiuk said,
“As coaches we’re always trying to develop ourselves. We never stop trying to improve.”
Callan Ward, a Spotswood product whose talent was identified while at the Jets, was named co-captain of AFL expansion club GWS Giants alongside big-name recruits Phil Davis and Luke Power.
The hard-nosed midfielder did not take to the field in his side’s pre-season clash with Hawthorn on Saturday, but did so in week one of the NAB Cup and showed obvious leadership qualities.
For Kretiuk, sitting down in front of the TV set and watching Will Hoskin-Elliott and Adam Kennedy in action for the Giants was all the inspiration he needed to attack the new season with vigour.
“The buzz I get is watching the kids I coached run around in the AFL,” he said.
“It’s always nice to win [TAC Cup games] but our ultimate goal is to watch these kids running around in an AFL jumper.”
