Deniliquin’s Jack Henderson has been awarded the highest honour an individual can on VFL grand final day - the Norm Goss Medal for best on ground.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Henderson plays for Werribee, who met the Southport Sharks in the VFL’s grand final on Sunday.
Werribee took out the Smithy’s VFL Premiership for the first time in more than 30 years, 10.09 (69) to Southport 08.15 (63).
Henderson was undeniable in his performance, collecting 23 disposals, kicking two goals, racking up eight tackles and five clearances.
He was eventually named best on ground, placing the cherry on top of an already fantastic year for the VFL team of the year member and now premier.
He was presented with the Norm Goss Medal by current Geelong Football Club player and former teammate Shaun Mannagh, who won the award last year for Werribee.
Speaking to the Pastoral Times this week, Jack was adamant the Norm Goss Medal was not on his mind.
“I was looking more toward the premiership medal,” he said.
Jack has been a VFL listed player with Werribee since 2018.
“It’s incredible. I was lucky to be involved with the program.
“I joined after the affiliation with North Melbourne finished, and we had some coach turnovers, staff going onto some fantastic roles.
“There were hard days for sure, but it has all been well worth it.”
If a premiership and best of ground was not enough, Henderson was also named in the VFL Team of the Year this year. It is the second time he’s made the team of the year list.
Henderson is now the second Deniliquin footballer to win a Norm Goss Medal.
Sam Lloyd claimed it in Richmond’s VFL grand final loss in 2017.
Being judged the best player on the field between the two strongest VFL teams for the year will be sure to shine a light on Henderson.
Mannagh and Lloyd drew attention from AFL clubs after their medal wins, and both found themselves playing at the highest level.
When quizzed on the link and what it means for his future, Henderson said, “don’t read too much into it”.
Before joining the VFL, Henderson was involved in both the Deniliquin Rams Football & Netball Club and the Blighty Football & Netball Club.