Gaz the best in my time: Bomber
GEELONG coaching great Mark “Bomber” Thompson says a premiership in Gary Ablett’s final game would be a fitting end for “the best player I’ve seen”.
Thompson, who coached Ablett to two flags in 2007 and 2009, said he rated the Cats champion ahead of his famous father Gary “God” Ablett Sr, North Melbourne great Wayne Carey and Hawthorn legend Leigh Mathews.
“I didn’t see everything of Leigh Mathews but I saw him up close; he was a great player but I reckon Gaz is just cleaner and probably won more of the ball,” Thompson said.
“He’s certainly had the longevity, he’s been highly successful and has won all of the awards.”
Ablett plays game 357 in the AFL grand final at the Gabba on Saturday night to complete a glittering 19-season career that has netted two Brownlow medals, eight All-Australian jumpers, six best and fairests – including four at the Gold Coast Suns – and five AFLPA MVPs.
“I think the ones from his peer group are probably the most special and most telling on how good a career he has had because umpires and media awards can sometimes get it wrong,” Thompson said.
“Players know who the best player in the competition is.
“When I watch football and he’s playing the game, I still get
excited when he goes near the ball.
“I never saw (Bob) Skilton or (Darrel) Baldock play but I just know that there are some people when they go near the ball they have an ability to get it all the time.
“He has that and he gets out of areas that he shouldn’t be able to get out of, and still uses the ball at a high standard – and he kicks goals.
“I was very lucky to have the chance to coach him.”
Thompson said he could recall “vividly” Ablett’s first senior game against Essendon at the MCG in Round 1, 2002.
“I remember he won a ball and was quite hesitant, and didn’t realise how quick the game was – but he quickly adapted to that,” he said.
It was obvious early on that Ablett was a good AFL player but Thompson said he was verging on great within “a couple of years at the club”.
“He’s got a gift from God – literally. He got a fair advantage there but you don’t do what he has done with just ability, he certainly had innerdrive and high standards.”