Deadly Jetts
Lewis Jetta last night won a Deadly Award, and has his sight set on one more prize this week
Sydney Swans livewire Lewis Jetta has already struck the first blow against the Hawks this week, taking out the Outstanding Achievement in AFL gong at last night’s Deadly Awards over Hawthorn’s Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli.
The award, which was announced at the Sydney Opera House, recognises the contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders make in society across a number of fields including sport, music and entertainment.
Jetta also outvoted Essendon’s Paddy Ryder and Carlton’s Eddie Betts for the annual award, following his break-out season, which sees him leading the Swans’ goalkicking table with 45 goals.
In a week of award’s ceremonies, Jetta also polled his first ever Brownlow votes on Monday evening, finishing the night with five votes for his 2012 efforts.
Speaking to SwansTV, Jetta said this week had exceeded all of his expectations so far.
“It was very good just to get any kind of Brownlow vote and it was pretty exciting times on the night, but we’ve got bigger things to look forward to this weekend,” Jetta said.
“I never in my wildest dreams (thought I’d reach a Grand Final so soon).
“As a kid just playing in the park with friends I always joked to myself saying ‘Jetta kicks the goal to win the Grand Final’ and now we’ve got the opportunity this week.”
Jetta has been described as the Swans’ X-factor this finals series, which is a title the 23-year-old, is relishing.
“I love the big games,” he said.
“Back in the day when I was playing juniors, I remember playing in a Grand Final and getting three touches and I told myself that never again was that going to happen.”
The fleet-footed forward already demonstrated his ability to perform on the big stage in Friday night’s 26-point win over Collingwood.
Jetta contributed three outstanding goals to the Swans’ win, including an unforgettable run than spanned more than half the ground.
“It probably was one of the biggest and best goals I’ve ever kicked,” Jetta said of Friday night’s first goal.
“To (kick) goals like that one in big games is always going to stand out, so that will be with me forever.”
Looking ahead to this weekend’s big game, the Swans leading goalkicker said he is yet to feel nervous about what is without a doubt the biggest game in his career to date.
Jetta added that he hoped to embrace all that Grand Final week has to offer down in Melbourne.
“It’s going to be a big atmosphere - that’s Melbourne, that’s AFL Grand Final week and I’m just going to try to soak it up and take it all in,” he said.
“I haven’t got (any) nerves at the moment.
“I’m the type of guy that sort of gets really nervous after things, but I reckon I’ll get a few nerves heading into the game.”