Ex-North Melbourne and Port Adelaide on-baller Ben Jacobs has recently found himself in a new role at Moorabin as a development coach.
Jacobs joins six-time All Australian Corey Enright and ex-Hawthorn assistant coach Damian Carroll as new additions to St Kilda's development program.
The ex-tagger will also assist ex-Richmond defender and Sandringham head coach Jake Batchelor as an assistant coach in the VFL.
Whilst Jacobs seemed to have a very promising position in store for him as a tagger in the AFL, his career was ultimately cut short following a series of concussion injuries.
Adding to this, Jacobs sustained further injuries to his eyes, neck and head, leading to him being axed by North Melbourne alongside ten others at the end of 2020.
After one year out of the AFL system in 2021, Jacobs now appears to be ready to embark on another AFL journey.
Speaking to saints.com.au, Jacobs said, “Even though my playing career was cut short, I still feel as though I have a lot to give.”
“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."
Despite a drop-off in performance for the Saints last year falling back in falling backto 10th, Jacobs remains optimistic about the group, in particular their young midfield.
“I’ve been working pretty closely with the midfield group, especially the younger boys and they have all been impressive," he continued.
“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.”
After his horrid run with injuries, Jacobs seems to have finally caught a break in the AFL, albeit off the field. And he appears to be loving it.
“It has been incredibly enjoyable. I’m learning every day and I’m loving it right now.”
Jacobs and the Saints are set to face both Carlton and Essendon in pre-season clashes across the next month before their season proper commences on March 18 when they do battle with Collingwood at Marvel Stadium.
