If one week is a long time in footy, then 10 years must feel like a lifetime. Ten years marred by long-term injuries, concussion setbacks and a host of other complications must make it feel even longer.
But for new development coach Ben Jacobs, he still has plenty more to give.
Following a decade in the AFL system at Port Adelaide and North Melbourne, Jacobs is set to take on his first coaching role at the elite level in 2022. The 29-year-old will help develop St Kilda's next generation as a development coach, working closely alongside Head of Learning and Development Damian Carroll to oversee the growth of the young brigade.
Jacobs will also assist St Kilda Development and Sandringham Head Coach Jake Batchelor throughout 2022 as an assistant coach in the VFL.
“It has been incredibly enjoyable. I’m learning every day and I’m loving it right now,” Jacobs told saints.com.au.
“Obviously it is just the beginning, but everyone in the coaching group has been so welcoming and inclusive, so it has made that process of coming into the club that much smoother for me."
At only 29-years-old, Jacobs has had a harder road than most. Dealt a luckless run with injuries throughout his 90-game career - including issues with his neck, head and eyes - the former midfielder was forced to sit out two whole seasons due to concussion, ultimately culminating in a premature retirement at the end of 2020.
Despite his torrid run of luck with injuries, the chance to help develop the next generation of footballers was taken up Jacobs.
“Even though my playing career was cut short, I still feel as though I have a lot to give,” Jacobs said.
“I learned so many lessons throughout my career, and while I might not be playing anymore, I want to be able to pass on that knowledge to the next generation.
“I’ve been working pretty closely with the midfield group, especially the younger boys and they have all been impressive.
“They are all switched on kids who are hungry to learn and eager to take on as much information as possible. It is one of the things that I really love about working here.
"There are no egos. Everyone has a growth mindset, which is great as a coach because they are usually the ones coming up to you for things, you aren’t having to seek them out.”
While he is set to help develop the young talent within St Kilda's ranks, Jacobs will also be looking to learn and take as much on board as he can during his first few months at RSEA Park.
“With it being my first year in the AFL system as a coach, I’m just really keen to listen to everyone and get all the different views on the games of footy.”
“It is a good coaching group here, filled with guys who have had a lot of success at the highest level in different areas of footy.”
“Whether it be on-field with premierships or off-field from a coaching sense, there is a lot of experience here, and everyone has been so good to me.”
“I’m really looking forward to learning as much as possible from them.”
