FORMER Horsham footballer Seb Ross has been named in the 2017 Virgin Australia AFL All Australian squad.
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Forty players from across the AFL were selected and it was St Kilda player Ross’ first appearance in the squad.
Ross played 22 games during 2017 and he had 318 kicks, 79 marks and 339 handballs – the eighth highest in the AFL.
He averaged 14.5 kicks, 3.6 marks and 15.4 handballs a game and kicked five goals and nine behinds for the season. He recorded 112 clearances, 89 inside 50 metres, 43 rebound 50 metres and 94 tackles.
It has been a big season for Ross and his team, who were in finals contention right up until the final round.
Ross said he was surprised when he learned he was named in the team.
“We were at the pub when (the team) was put out on Monday. It hadn’t crossed my mind that I would even be picked and I only found out when my team manager came up and told me,” he said.
“It’s something I haven’t really thought about.
“It is very humbling to be recognised for my season.”
Ross said while his game had improved since last season, he had placed a focus on the team.
“I haven’t really thought about individual improvement, yet. Right up until Sunday we were in finals contention, so I was just thinking about that,” he said.
Ross said it is always good playing against tough opposition.
“Every team has a superstar midfielder. I played on (Richmond’s) Dustin Martin recently and he is a superstar,” he said.
“I’ve had a fair few opportunities to play on some of the best players in the league.
“When we play Sydney, I am on (Josh) Kennedy every time and I reckon from the first time I played on him to now, I have improved a lot.
“It’s good because it gives you that bit of self belief... knowing you’re improving.”
It was Ross’ sixth season in the AFL in 2017.
“I’ve had great guys play beside me and still do,” he said.
“There was a void when all of them left, which gave me a chance. I had a good crack at playing some consistent footy.
“I am comfortable at that level now. When you have players like Luke Dunstan and Leigh Montagna who gel as a group well, it becomes easier to play.”
The Saints took on Richmond in their final game of the home-and-away season but fell short of the win – 19.8 (122) to 12.9 (81).
“They were pretty impressive. I guess they squared the ledger seeing we beat them a couple weeks ago,” Ross said.
“They are playing some good footy at the moment.
“Now the season has finished, I’d like to thank all the people back at home for following and supporting me. I do appreciate it.”