Jeremy Howe is a professional Australian rules footballer who has made a significant impact in the Australian Football League (AFL). Known for his incredible leaping ability and versatility on the field, Howe has become one of the most respected and admired players in the league. His journey from a relatively unheralded rookie to an elite defender is a story of hard work, determination, and extraordinary athletic talen
### Early Life and Career
BeginningsHis early years were spent in Tasmania, where he developed a passion for Australian rules football. He played junior football with Dodges Ferry in the Southern Football League and later represented Tasmania in the U18 national championships. Despite his talent, Howe was not immediately recognized as a top draft prospect. His path to the AFL was unconventional; he had to overcome the odds and prove himself at every level.After being overlooked in the 2009 AFL Draft, Howe continued to develop his skills while playing for the Hobart Tigers in the Tasmanian State League. His performances there caught the attention of AFL scouts, particularly his ability to take spectacular marks and his consistent performances in the midfield and forward line.
### AFL Debut and Early Care
MelbourneIn the 2010 AFL Draft, Howe was selected by the Melbourne Football Club with the 33rd overall pick. He made his debut for Melbourne in Round 11 of the 2011 season against Essendon. Howe quickly became known for his incredible marking ability, often leaping over opponents to take breathtaking grabs. These high-flying marks became a trademark of his playing style and earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.During his time with Melbourne, Howe played primarily as a forward, where his athleticism and strong hands made him a constant threat around goal. However, despite his individual brilliance, the Melbourne team struggled, and Howe’s talent was not always reflected in the team’s success.
### Move to Collingwood and Transformation
Into an Elite DefenderIn 2015, Howe made a significant decision to move to the Collingwood Football Club in search of greater team success and a fresh start. This move marked a turning point in his career. At Collingwood, coach Nathan Buckley saw the potential for Howe to reinvent himself as a defender. Howe’s move to defense allowed him to showcase his aerial prowess even more effectively. As a defender, he could use his ability to read the play and take intercept marks to great effect. His capacity to nullify opposition forwards while launching attacks from the backline made him one of the most valuable players in the league. In 2017, Howe was named in the All-Australian squad, an acknowledgment of his outstanding performances throughout the season. Although he missed out on final selection in the team, this recognition solidified his status as one of the premier defenders in the AFL. He also won Collingwood’s Best and Fairest award in 2020, further underlining his importance to the team.
### Notable Achievements and Career
Highlights Throughout his career, Jeremy Howe has been celebrated for several key achievements and memorable moments:
1. **High-Flying Marks**
: Howe is arguably best known for his ability to take spectacular marks. He has consistently featured in the AFL’s Mark of the Year nominations and won the award in 2012 for a breathtaking grab against the Sydney Swans. His high-flying style has made him a fan favorite and a regular feature in highlight reels.
2. **Versatility**:
Howe’s ability to play both as a forward and a defender speaks to his versatility and football intelligence. His adaptability has allowed him to thrive in different roles, depending on his team’s needs.
3. **Leadership**:
Howe’s leadership qualities have been recognized at Collingwood, where he has served as a vice-captain. His experience, calmness under pressure, and ability to inspire teammates have made him a key figure in the club’s leadership group.
4. **Resilience**:
Throughout his career, Howe has faced several injury setbacks, including a serious knee injury in 2020 that sidelined him for most of the season. Despite these challenges, he has always shown resilience, working hard to return to the field and perform at a high level.
### Impact on the GameJeremy
Howe’s impact on the AFL goes beyond his individual accolades. He has redefined what it means to be a defender in the modern game. Howe’s influence extends off the field as well. He is known for his humble and down-to-earth personality, making him a respected figure among his peers and a role model for aspiring footballers. His journey from Tasmania to the AFL, overcoming the odds and proving doubters wrong, is a testament to his character and determination.
### Legacy and Future Prospects
As of 2024, Jeremy Howe is nearing the twilight of his career, but his legacy is already well-established. He is regarded as one of the best defenders of his era and a player who has consistently thrilled fans with his extraordinary athleticism and skill. Looking ahead, Howe’s experience and leadership will continue to be invaluable to Collingwood as they aim for further success. While retirement may be on the horizon, Howe’s impact on the game will endure, whether through coaching, mentoring, or involvement in football media.
### Conclusion
Jeremy Howe’s career is a story of talent, versatility, and perseverance. From his early days in Tasmania to his rise as one of the AFL’s premier defenders, Howe has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the football field. His spectacular marks, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities have made him a beloved figure in the AFL community. As he continues to contribute to the game, both on and off the field, Howe’s legacy as one of the game’s greats is assur
