By ADEM SARICAOGLU
DAVID Iaccarino claimed the Barry Round Medal as the Western Jets’ best-and-fairest winner last week.
Iaccarino enjoyed a breakout season in 2013 and was a clear standout right throughout, kicking 16 goals in 18 TAC Cup appearances to go with his two-goal haul for Williamstown in the VFL back in May.
“I was very happy to win with some of the boys there that have played with the Jets,” Iaccarino said.
“I was very happy to win the prize – I wasn’t expecting it.”
The 19-year-old Williamstown product had battled shoulder problems for much of his TAC Cup experience, but was able to finally shake it off and deliver consistent footy this season.
“I think it was definitely a breakout year for me,” Iaccarino said.
“I’ve finally been able to string a few games together in a row which I haven’t been able to do in the last few seasons, so it’s definitely a breakout season.
“Even kicking goals … I wasn’t used to doing that but towards the end of the season I started kicking a few goals, which was good.”
Coach Torin Baker was glowing in his praise for Iaccarino’s ability to produce quality football despite his ongoing shoulder issues.
“It was a real testament to his season that he was able to have a grand season while playing with a shoulder injury,” Baker said.
“We certainly had discussions after round two to put him away and have him have a shoulder reconstruction but he was keen to continue on.
“We got medical clearance for him to continue on but then to have the season that he did was outstanding.”
Despite his consistently good form throughout the season, Iaccarino was overlooked for both draft combines, but Baker still believes the gun goal-kicking midfielder has plenty to offer for whoever lands his services in 2014 and beyond.
“There certainly is some interest with some clubs,” Baker said.
“It was surprising that he didn’t get invited to the combines but we know that there are clubs that have been speaking about him.
“So there’s always a chance (of getting drafted), but if not I know there’d be a lot of VFL clubs that would be very keen to have his services for next year.”
Iaccarino said he’ll continue to push for the ultimate goal whatever happens this off-season.
“Obviously you want to be at the combines but I’ll just keep training and working hard and hopefully I’ll get picked up in the end,” he said.
“If it’s this year or not it doesn’t really matter – I won’t give up the dream.”
