As part of our celebration of 100 years of the Phelan Medal, each week we’re spotlighting a past Phelan Medallist and their contribution to AFL Sydney history.
Football Background
Full Name: Trevor Burnett
Nickname: Jamtin
Playing Position/s: On ball
Playing Status: Retired
Phelan Medal Receipt Year/s: 1999
Years playing in Sydney: 17
Sydney Senior Club/s: Campbelltown/Wollongong
Sydney Junior Club/s: Juniors with Border Magpies(Riverina)
Pocket Profile Questions
Toughest Opponent in Sydney?
Barnaby Howarth (Pennant Hills)
What did winning a Phelan Medal/s mean to you?
While footy is a team game and for me the team success is paramount, it was nice to achieve an individual accolade that recognised the hard work and training I had put in.
What impact did winning a Phelan Medal have on your playing career?
It gave me extra confidence that I could help my team’s achieve success and belief in my own ability. It also gave me a bit more attention from opposition teams.
What is your most memorable moment from your career in Sydney?
Captaining Campbelltown in the 1999 grand final win, and getting the Rod Podbury medal for best on ground after winning the Phelan medal earlier that week. Pretty cool few days.
Did you have any pre-game superstitions or routines?
Same undies and tape around socks.
What is the best advice you received as a player and from who?
“Don’t tuck and run” and “Hit your targets! No point getting 30 touches if you keep turning the ball over” – Steve Bird
What would be one piece of advice for young players coming into AFL Sydney?
Get involved with the club. You play your best footy if you enjoy the people around you and who you are playing with.
If retired, what do you miss most about footy?
The comradery and friendships built on putting your body on the line for each other.