In episode 11 of Inside Melbourne, Neville Jetta joins Clint and Caty to recap the big win against Carlton and Nev explains the meaning behind this years Indigenous jumper (5:00). We discuss the importance of opening Sir Doug Nicholls Round in Alice Springs (8:00), Nev’s difficult journey as a player (12:00) and we take your questions from the outer (21:00)
NEVILLE Jetta says he will take great pride in pulling on the Indigenous guernsey and representing his heritage in Sunday’s game against Adelaide in Alice Springs.
Speaking to Inside Melbourne, the small defender said the guernsey, designed by Jeff Garlett’s aunty Cindy Prior, held special meaning for the Indigenous player group at the club.
“It’s something that me and Jeffy are pretty proud of, to be able to put on a jumper, something with a bit of our heritage, where we’ve come from and our story that’s being passed on. I’m very proud to wear my culture, my tribe on our jumper, so I’m looking forward to running out in it.”
The Sunday afternoon game against the Crows at TIO Traeger Park will kick-off the Sir Doug Nicholls Indigenous round, which will continue across Round 11.
Jetta, who hails from the Noongar people in Western Australia, said the round was an important opportunity to highlight the connection between Indigenous heritage and cultures and the sport.
“The AFL and footy in general has been unbelievable in the power that it has to bring people together and the power it has to open doors for not only Indigenous people, but everyone from all walks of life,” Jetta said.
“It’s only [a round], but there’s always learning throughout the whole year we do as a footy club. But it’s really emphasised in this week.”
In the interview, Jetta also said he was “rapt” to be a part of Melbourne’s current success, after admitting he nearly gave his AFL dream up at the end of 2013 after being delisted. The incoming Paul Roos gave him a second chance as a rookie just a few weeks later.
Now a consistent contributor to the side’s defensive efforts, Jetta said this weekend’s clash with the Crows would be an important barometer for the red and blue after four wins on the trot.
He said he can’t wait to play in the Territory once again and go toe-to-toe with one of the game’s best small forwards, Eddie Betts.
“I’ve played the better sort of games in my career up there. Darwin’s always a good one to go to, but Alice probably has a bit more significance, a bit more spiritual side to it,” Jetta said.
“It probably turned my career around playing on Eddie. He’s one that you always have to get up for and he’s been one of the premier small forwards in the competition.
“You know that any sort of second or any room you give him, it’s a goal. So I’m looking forward to getting up there and playing against him.”
