When Narromine Jets’ veteran Willie Middleton crossed for a four-pointer in Sunday’s Group 11 match against Dubbo Westside, it was a touching moment in more ways than one.
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Firstly, it was 53-year-old Willie’s first try of the season, clinched with less than 20 minutes remaining in the last match of 2018.
Secondly, it was set-up by his own son, Narromine Jets hooker and captain-coach Wes Middleton, the junior Middleton throwing a precision cut-out pass to his dad on the wing.
The joy on Willie’s face was apparent, and the moment was not lost on Wes; the chance to play with his dad – his childhood idol – was one of the reasons he chose to return to Narromine.
Middleton moved back to Narromine in late 2017 after an extensive playing career that included two seasons with the Balmain Tigers and three seasons at the Redcliffe Dolphins.
In taking on the captain-coach role he said he wanted to be a leader on and off the field, and on Sunday he did that.
Wes guided the Jets to their third win of the season to leapfrog Westside on the table and avoid the wooden spoon.
“I couldn’t have picked a better way to start my coaching career,” he said after Sunday’s game.
“I embraced the whole year. It was definitely a learning curve for me … it’s made me a better coach and a better player.
“I’ve learned a lot from these boys and I’m proud to say that I’m developing into a really good coach.”
Success didn’t necessarily come in terms of victories on the field, but there was certainly success.
The club had its full first grade side turning up for training week in, week out, and oozed positivity both on and off the field.
“We were actually pretty competitive throughout our season and that comes back to the boys turning up.,” Wes said.
“I think they had a coach they could believe in … where we are on the table doesn’t reflect how we’re all feeling.”
Wes said he was “hungry” to continue to grow as a coach, but is yet to decide whether he will continue at Narromine.
He will consult with his family and the club before making a decision about his immediate future, but said wherever he ends up, “it’s going to be a positive environment and you can expect the same leadership”.
Regardless of what he decides, the chance to lead his hometown around the park, and play with his dad in particular, is “something I hold very close to my heart”.
“He’s a great leader and a great father. He was my idol growing up,” Wes said.
“It’s a privilege to just run on the field with him … I’m honoured and it’s something really special that I can hold close.
“Where I’m at is because of him.”
