Gaynor played junior representative football with Spargo’s son and Melbourne player Charlie and moved to the Border to test himself at a higher level.

“I’m so glad I came to Albury,” Gaynor said.

“I can’t thank Paul Spargo enough for getting me down here.

“I’m just stoked, it’s unreal.”

Gaynor was unlucky to be pipped by teammate Dean Polo for the Did Simpson Medal after kicking two goals including a sensational checkside early in the final quarter.

He picked up 10 touches in the opening quarter before exploding again during a pressure-packed last term.

”I’ve never played in a game like that before,” he said.

“It was that fast.

“Wangaratta kept coming at us and we managed to hold them off.”

While Wangaratta paid close particularly close to attention Chris Hyde, Daniel Cross and Elliott Powell, Gaynor slipped under the radar and it hurt the Magpies dearly.

“I can’t describe it,” he said.

“I was so happy to get over the line.

“I love the club.”