Anne Cornish,the president of Palm Beach Currumbin,toldThe Age Jones’ presence at the club had been a positive throughout the year and his teammates respected his decision as he had been upfront with them all year about his hopes to return to the AFL.
“He’s not leaving the club,he’s remaining as an assistant coach. He’s been the assistant coach for the seniors,or one of the assistant coaches,since day dot. So he’ll just continue in that role and not play,to prepare for whatever may occur. I don’t know any details around who’s approached him,or what,” Cornish said.
“He’s been amazing. He’s great with the kids – we’ve got what we call the Colts,which are the under-19s,he just continually offers advice. He’s a great clubman,participates in events. You couldn’t ask for a better footballer,really he’s the overall package,and just a lovely bloke.
“He let them know,he wanted to. First of all he announced that he’s got an opportunity to possibly play AFL,and they thought that was amazing. Then he went through and explained that he wouldn’t be playing,and there was a standing ovation,even after that,just to wish him well. I didn’t realise how much respect and genuine like they had for him.”