Episode 233 – Jacob van Rooyen

Melbourne Football Club’s Rising Star: Jacob van Rooyen

Early Beginnings and Football Passion

Jacob van Rooyen’s journey into the world of football began at a young age, fueled by his passion for the game. Growing up watching his father play in local leagues, he was captivated by the sport and started playing backyard matches with siblings and friends. The phrase “Melbourne Football Club Key Forward” played a significant role in shaping his aspirations. It exemplified the epitome of his dreams and the determination to become a key forward for the Melbourne Football Club.

Highlights from the episode:

• How he started footy and the people who influenced him
• How Jacob managed to still perform during the challenging COVID interrupted football season of 2020
• What his best footy playstyle looks like
• His key focus during the offseason or preseason
• His gym work routine for the week

Influence of Family and Upbringing

His father’s influence played a crucial role in shaping Jacob’s work ethic and determination. Moving from England to Australia, Jacob’s father instilled in him the drive to pursue his dreams both on and off the field.

Making Waves in the State League

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Jacob showcased his potential as a key forward while playing for Claremont’s colts team in Western Australia’s state league. His strong marking ability and accurate kicking caught the attention of many.

Rising to the Challenge

Jacob’s focus during the off-season/pre-season was to improve and compete with the senior team at Claremont. His goal was to play senior footy in round one, motivating him to work tirelessly on his strength, fitness, and skills.

A Stellar Debut Season

All the hard work paid off when he made his debut for Claremont’s senior team in round one of the 2021 season. Jacob’s aggressive playing style and goal-scoring ability quickly earned him a place in the hearts of fans.

Joining Melbourne Football Club

A Dream Come True

Selected by Melbourne FC in the 2021 AFL draft, Jacob was ecstatic to have the chance to play for one of the league’s biggest clubs. He was determined to make a significant impact in his first year.

Rising to the Challenge

In his debut season for Melbourne, Jacob proved his capability to play at the highest level. His powerful marking and goal-scoring ability made him an integral part of the team’s success.

Looking Forward

With his eyes set on the future, Jacob aims to further develop his skills and consistently contribute to Melbourne’s success. He aspires to become a key player for the team in the coming years.

Conclusion

Jacob van Rooyen’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. His love for football from a young age, combined with family support, has made him one of the AFL’s most promising young players. As he continues to grow and thrive, Jacob’s future in the sport looks incredibly bright, and he will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Australian Football.