On Brownlow Medal night, the football world got a glimpse into the life of Eagles champion Matt Priddis.
After winning the award, he gave one of the most heartfelt speeches in memory, highlighting his values of family, honesty and hard work.
So it’s no surprise that the midfield workhorse chose to give his body a rest over the bye with his family in Dunsborough.
Bye offers ideal break: Simpson
“I just love to spend as much time as I can with my girls and (wife) Ash,” he said.
“It’s good to get a rest, although two young girls means I don’t get too much of a rest.
“But honestly, it was great to get away. It’s one of our favourite places in the world down there, so to be able to shoot down for a few days and relax was perfect for us.”
It may seem silly to say Priddis is having a career-best season, but all his key indicators suggest that is indeed the case.
Priddis is averaging more disposals, inside-50s, clearances, contested possessions, uncontested possessions and four times as many goal assists than he did in his Brownlow Medal winning 2014 season.
“I’m really happy playing my role in the team each week,” he said.
“Honestly, that’s the biggest thing for me, playing my part with my teammates to hopefully get a win.
“We’re playing good footy at the moment, but we all know the hard work that lies ahead.
“We’re a young, developing group and we’re building, but nothing is taken for granted here.
“We’re up for the challenge of maintaining our work rate for the rest of the year to hopefully improve on last year’s 11 wins.
“That was the goal at the start of the season and nothing has changed.”
