Player Column – Jarrod Parry Round 14

BANTER at football clubs is a given, and is something us players enjoy besides playing games itself. That is one of the best things about a football team; there is an eclectic range of people with different personalities, backgrounds, cultures, attitudes, jobs and careers.

This creates opportunities for banter between the boys at the club over a variety of things; one being what each does to make a crust. We have a range of tradies, real estate agents, accountants, a bicycle technician, personal trainers and students, just to name a few.

Leaving high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in regards to working and having a career. The popular dream of winning the lotto always was in the back of the mind but I knew I had to be more realistic. I decided to head to university and study exercise and sports science as it was a broad degree with many different pathways.

Towards the end I made the decision I wanted to stay at uni for an extra year and move into teaching. I currently teach health and physical education at a secondary school, which I enjoy. It fits in perfectly with football as the hours usually allow me to get to training on time, except for the occasions of after school sport. Also, it is a good opportunity to relate to students through football and sport in general. I no doubt cop my fair whack of banter for being a teacher, where just saying it gets a few laughs.

Speaking of banter, there is no one better at the club than Adam Guglielmana. Googs is known for his quick and witty comebacks, not being the loudest but is always listened too. It was terrific to see him play his 100th game last week after having a run of injuries, including a knee reconstruction. It was disappointing we couldn’t get the win for him, as there wouldn’t be many more deserving. His team first attitude and hardness at every contest makes him such a popular player within the playing group.

We look forward to this weekend and take on a good outfit in Swan Districts. They got the better of us when we met earlier in the year, so we are looking to get one back on them with a win this Saturday.

With the game being televised on 7mate the boys will be getting their haircuts to look their best on the TV, but it will be great to see a big crowd of supporters getting behind the boys down at Fremantle Oval.