What I See with Peter Fiorenza: Jed Hagan proves how inspiring persistence and passion can be amid setbacks

People continually inspire me. Simply put, I’m interested in people and what makes them tick. Often, some of those individuals are from history — leaders, politicians and writers. Those who push the boundaries of the human spirit and often reiterate my very faith in humanity. But those people who inspire are not limited to the categories I have just mentioned. In fact, there are occasions when I marvel at the focus and resilience of someone I know — and that is a case-in-point at the moment. Recently, on my sports radio show I interviewed young local footballer Jed Hagan. For those who might not be aware, a few years ago Jed was setting himself up on a career path in the AFL. His attributes in underage football saw him represent teams at both regional and then State level. Basically, Jed was considered a prodigy. I am fortunate to have been privy to his formative years, and can attest to a youngster who was focused, disciplined and taking all that came his way with a humble gusto. There was, no doubt, that Jed was destined to create a career path as a professional footballer. So, it was with great anticipation that many locals followed the machinations of the AFL draft, when the opportunity came Jed’s way. We watched as round after round unfolded, but no club revealed the name — Jed Hagan. It was deflating for us, let alone Jed and his family. What really made it ache more for me was the fact that Jed was not only a local, young footballer who had his dreams dashed, but also because he was, in my opinion, an exceptional person. He missed out. His world was turned upside down. But despite the setback, Jed hit the deck, jumped right up and played on. After a few years playing in South Australia, Jed went on to gain further experience at East Fremantle in more recent times. And fortune certainly favours the brave. During our radio phone chat, Jed revealed that he has just signed with the Tasmanian Devils VFL side, in a bid to create a pathway to being included in Tasmania’s AFL team in 2027. “It was actually through a conversation with a mate, that led to the decision to sign,” Jed said. “But I’m still so keen to make it to the AFL, and this seems like an exciting opportunity.” What resilience. There are many who would have been so wounded by such an experience that chose to perhaps alter their ambitions completely. But this young man still has a hunger burning inside that he needs to satisfy. “I just want to play and enjoy football at the highest level I can possibly play, and if moving to Tasmania can help to do that, then I’m in,” the 21 year-old said, with an honest sound of raw enthusiasm. So, in Jed’s book, even if he doesn’t get to the top, at least he has tried and that is certainly inspirational. So proud of you Jed. Peter Fiorenza hosts Sports Shed Saturday (9am to noon) and Fiorenza on Sunday (10am to noon) on Radio MAMA and Radio Geraldton