Josh Martin could be forgiven for thinking his football life peaked during last year's AFL Cairns grand final day at Cazalys.
The Wycheproof native notched a boast-worthy double. First, he coached Cairns Saints’ reserve grade side to a grand final win before he played in the club’s senior triumph over South Cairns.
In terms of fond memories, it was always going to be difficult to top but 12 months later and Martin has the chance to do just that.
Before he runs on for Saints in the top grade, Martin will attempt to mastermind back-to-back flags for his team. Saints finished third in the reserve grade regular season and won through to Saturday's grand final against South Cairns with a narrow nine-point victory over North Cairns.
While only six players remain from last year’s premiership side, Martin said there was a familiar feeling of confidence at Saints.
"It would be great to repeat the dose. Last year was the first time the club had won both grades and it would be a fantastic achievement to do it again," he said.
"Unlike in the seniors we’ve beaten Souths in the reserves and we think we might have a bit of an edge.
"It’s going to be interesting with both sides playing in the senior grand final. There won’t be players dropping back and it makes it pretty even in terms of experience."
South Cairns reserve grade coach Gary Wilson thinks Saturday’s match will be decided by temperament.
"I believe it will come down to whoever settles first. There are always a few nerves around grand final day," he said. "It should be a good contest though. We are all looking forward to it."
Wilson believes he has struck the right formula of youth and experience to be successful.
"We’ve got a good sprinkling of ages in our team," he said.
"We’ve worked really hard to develop our under-18s this year. Unfortunately due to numbers we’ve had to cut some from the team but we’re going to have a strong side out there."
The reserve grade grand final starts at 12.30pm.
Last Modified on 17/09/2009 11:30