Connor Kirkwood was just a boy when he watched his uncle win a Newcastle Rugby League grand final with Cessnock.
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Seventeen years on and it was his turn, being named man of the match as the Goannas beat Souths 20-6 at Maitland Sportsground on Sunday. He was part of Cessnock's side that lost last season's decider.
"I'm a Branxton boy and a Cessnock junior. My uncle played in the last grand final side 17 years ago and to finally win one is so special. All I've wanted to do is play first grade for Cessnock and to win a grand final is just the best feeling ever," Kirkwood said.
Kirkwood said "he felt very honoured and proud to receive the medal" but conceded "any one of our 17 boys could have won this award today".
Formally in the halves, he has relished a move to lock.
"I've never enjoyed football more than this year. I think it's my spot. I've been bouncing around all over the place the last few years, but I love being on the ball and getting my work rate up," he said.
Kirkwood said the 2020 title "came down to effort and not giving in".
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