New approach helping Jez win battle of heart and mind
THINGS are finally starting to fall into place for Suns draftee Jez McLennan.
Homesickness, shutting down parts of his natural instincts and coming to terms with the physical and mental requirements of an AFL player have all played their part in a challenging transition to the top level for the 18-year-old South Australian (pictured).
But he has begun winning the battle of the body and mind, producing glimpses of the talent that propelled Gold Coast to trade picks 27 and 32 in order to secure McLennan at 23 last year.
His form and the opportunity to take McLennan back to his home state led to his inclusion in the extended squad for the Suns’ Round 8 game against Port Adelaide last weekend where he caught up with family and oversaw the team’s preparation.
McLennan took it as a sign he was on the right path.
“The last couple of weeks have been really good. I have been able to string a couple of good games together in the NEAFL after working closely with (Suns reserves coach) Nick Malceski.”
The halfback said the improved form had come on the back of his professional development, improving his recovery and working on a host of mental challenges.
“The reason why I’m having some solid games is because of the things I have learnt about my preparation,” he said.
“Being a professional athlete preparation is huge going into games. My preparation over the last couple of weeks has gone really well which has gone into the games.
“I have got a few things I have to tick off through the week to know I have done everything I can to roll into the game. They are things like a lot of recovery early in the week, doing ice baths, getting a lot of massages and even using stuff like (phone app).
“The mental side of things is just as important. I try to get myself in the right headspace.
“It might be when you’re feeling a bit upset you might turn it on for five minutes and you will be good. It’s like meditation and visualising.
“I’ve also been working with our psychologist Tristan. I see him once a week to talk about personal things. He has been an asset.”
Returning to the Coast after seeing his family briefly would have been a difficult task only months ago, with McLennan revealing homesickness provided the biggest battle.
“I felt whenever I saw them, the two weeks after that were the hardest. I have been able to deal with that a lot better now.”
Meanwhile, the Southport Sharks NEAFL side will play Redland at Scottsdale Park on Sunday.