Echuca co-coach Simon Maddox was a key member in the Murray Bombers’ 2002 flag bid. Twenty years later, he has led them to another flag as their coach.
Maddox took up the mantle as coach alongside Andrew Walker in 2018 and now can lift the Goulburn Valley League premiership in a culmination of the pair’s five-year plan.
Echuca was a 12-point victor over Euroa on Sunday, rectifying its 2019 defeat.
“It’s been 20 years and to finally get that flag is special,” Maddox said.
“To see three teams lining up today has been special. To be able to head out to Mansfield, Seymour, all these grounds and see that sea of green and white has been phenomenal.
“To come back after two years with no grand finals and get it done has been special. What is life without footy? So to be back to normal and winning a premiership is an amazing feeling.”
Maddox credited his players for a sensational match, but was also quick to pay tribute to Scott Rowan’s team, which threatened to cause one of the great grand final upsets at stages of the game.
“Euroa were unbelievable today, take nothing away from them,” Maddox said.
“We’ve built a good rivalry with them and they came hard today.
“We’ve been there before and we know what it’s like. They’re an unbelievable football club.
“There’s been a fair bit of blood between the two sides this year and we’ve had some ripping contests.”
But for now, according to Maddox, it is time to celebrate.
“It’s going to be one hell of a party at Victoria Park,” he said.
“If you haven’t taken Monday or Tuesday off, get that sorted.”