Billy Signs On

Box Hill Hawks are delighted to confirm Billy Murphy has put pen to paper on a deal to keep him at City Oval for the 2018 VFL season.

Murphy’s signing comes on the back of breakout season at VFL level, in which he featured in twelve senior games – including the final nine of the campaign – and managed 21 goals, good enough for third in the Club’s goal-kicking.

Now entering his fourth year in the Brown and Gold, Murphy is looking forward to the opportunity to step into a leadership role.

“I feel like this season is a great chance for me to develop different aspects of my game away from the on field stuff and grow as a leader.

“I certainly want to take on more responsibility in that space, and with the smaller group it’s a rare opportunity to establish really close relationships.

“We’ve so many fresh new faces this season, so I want to do what I can to develop a tight knit group, create a positive culture and ensure we’re relentless in our pursuit of success.”

A standout performer at Development level, Murphy’s continued consistency delivered a well-deserved opportunity to test himself at senior level. With his name amongst the magnets on Chris Newman’s team board our number three found his rhythm and range.

“For me, it was just a matter of getting that opportunity to string together some games in the seniors, which enabled me to grow in confidence and play the football I know I can play.

“Football is a constant battle between the physical and mental side of things.

“Generally speaking, at VFL level every player is in good physical condition, but if you are five percent off mentally you can be the worst footballer in the world.

“If you connect body and mind, confidence is a wonderful thing and can contribute significantly towards playing good football. And, of course, it helps being surrounded by such great teammates.”

It may be early in pre-season, but good humoured, long haired joker isn’t kidding when he assesses the Club’s prospects in 2018.

“As a team I feel top four is a realistic target and I’m incredibly excited to see what the new, young blood can bring to the group.

“So far the Box Hill Listed boys are looking pretty lethal out on the track, and once we connect that with the (AFL listed) Hawks boys I think we could be pretty damaging.”

For those familiar with Murphy’s style – the bursts through traffic, ability to find space, eye for goal and scything right boot – his goals for 2018 ought to bring a smile to their faces.

“I always try to impact every game that I play in, and that’ll continue.

“I want to take my game to the next level defensively and offensively; I want to take games on and break them open.”