Neville Jetta: Retiring Demon gives emotional speech to teammates, staff after club’s famous grand final win

Retiring Melbourne Demon Neville Jetta delivered an emotional address to teammates in the club’s Perth accommodation last week, just days after watching them win an historic premiership. In a video released across the club’s social media platforms, the Bunbury-born small defender, pictured, said he was “super proud” of his 13 years at the club. “I couldn’t have wrote it any better — to finish the way we finished and do it back in my home State,” he said. “I’m super-proud of my journey as a player, one that’s had many ups and downs, but I’m forever grateful to have been able to live out a childhood dream.” Jetta fought back tears as he spoke about his wife Sam and children Nalani and Kyree, who he said have helped him out of “some pretty dark places”. “They rode the highs and lows of everything that we’ve been through and pulled me out of some pretty dark places as well,” he said. “Like the rest of my family, I hope they’ve enjoyed the ride as much as I have and that I’ve made them proud along the way.” Jetta, who was forced to wait 10 years to even play a final for the Demons, watched from the stands as the club broke the league’s longest premiership drought, defeating the Bulldogs at Optus Oval. “Each and everyone of you in this room has helped our club be great again, “ he said. “I’m incredibly proud and love each and every one of you in this room and every single past player, staff member and the relationships I’ve made along the way.”