Teenager Tom Jeffrey impresses in exciting NEAFL debut for Aspley

Aspley debutant Tom Jeffrey impressed spectators and coaches alike with two quality goals in his side’s 65-point win over Sydney Uni on Saturday afternoon.

With two days until he turned 18, Jeffrey also collected six kicks, four handballs, two marks and three tackles, giving coach Daniel Webster plenty to like.

“He’s a ripping young kid,” Webster told neafl.com.au.

“He was fantastic; he works hard, he’s a good user of the ball and a smart footballer. He’s going to have a good career in front of him.”

Playing his junior football for Morningside, Jeffrey was “absolutely stoked,” to have received the opportunity in the first place.

“I got told during the week,” Jeffrey said.

“I wasn’t really too sure when that was coming, but I’m glad I took it with both hands and really enjoyed the win,” Jeffrey told neafl.com.au.

“Webby just told me to focus on my work-rate, effort and intensity. Just bring those things, and the rest of my game will sort of come along. Was happy to cap it off with a couple of goals.”

Jeffrey has been apart of the Lions Academy this season, and has featured in two NEAFL matches for the Lions reserves side, an experience he feels has gone a long way to help him to this point.

“It’s been a great experience training there since the start of November,” he said.

“Then have played a couple games with the Lions, so learning of those really experienced boys is really good.”

Eligible for the draft come season’s end, Jeffrey is still keeping his attention firmly on the now.

“More focused on the week-to-week basis, I’d love to just keep pushing my case to play consistent NEAFL footy, and whatever comes after that is a bonus.”

Aspley takes on NT Thunder in Alice Springs on Saturday night.

Don’t forget to download our free NEAFL App, featuring live Champion Data stats, player bios and more! Available now from the Google Play and Apple stores.

Have your say! Follow the NEAFL on Twitter (@neaflofficial), Instagram (@neaflofficial) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/neaflofficial).