There's an excellent article in today's Sunday Age about Brandon Jack's autobiography, simply titled '28'. The title refers to the total number of games he played for the Swans. The story explains how Jack has used his autobiography to describe how difficult it can be living in the shadows of, in his case, his famous father and brother, Kieran. Especially when you can't achieve the same levels of success. It should remind us of how hard it must have been for Tom Flower, Brian Stynes and so many others. Similiarly, there must be enormous pressure on sons of great players, too.

Let's all remember that every player that makes it onto an AFL list has achieved far more than most of us. Every game they play is a bonus. And let's stop using silly epithets like "spud" when describing a player who won't be the superstar we want him or her to be. 

 

The article and the story behind it would seem to have so much dignity and humanity that the only reason to comment is to add affirmation.

I did find myself wondering about the Brayshaw brothers and family. One good player, one superstar in the making and one who hasn't quite made it and meanwhile the family home is constantly packed with a production line of young star footballers being helped to settle in Melbourne.

 

I also believe Ron Barassi’s son was eligible for North’s list for a period as well when he was coaching there.

Apparently 28 is a very good read. A friend of mine Stuart Coupe whose judgment I trust (he’s a successful biographer of a number of musicians), is raving about this book. I’ll certainly be grabbing a copy.