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CUDGEWA forward Ben Hall was rewarded for his courage with his first senior premiership on Saturday.
Hall, who joined the Blues this season from Murray Magpies, thought his season was over after he suffered a broken jaw in round 11.
He overcame the setback and made a welcome return to the line-up in the second semi-final and had an immediate impact as he kicked 3.7 as the Blues enjoyed a 38-point win over Corryong.
Hall was also the Blues’ most dangerous forward in the decider to finish with 5.3.
“When I got my jaw broken I thought my season was done,” Hall said.
“But I got the all clear from the specialist in Melbourne and the rest is history.”
Hall admitted he had to conquer his mental demons to play again with the injury always on the back of his mind.
“It was always on the back of my mind, especially when you are getting sledged by the opposition calling you ‘Glassy’ and stuff like that,” he said.
“It sort of plays on your mind, but winning that premiership medallion makes it all worth it.”
Hall, who is close mates with Cudgewa coach Bill Deery, was rapt to see Deery finally win a flag in the final match of his career.
“It’s the best feeling knowing we were able to send Bill out on the ultimate high,” he said.
“He has put his heart and soul into getting the club in the position to play in grand finals and it’s just great to see him finally win one.”