Max Hatzoglou
Footscray legend Dean Russ was awarded Victorian Premier Cricket’s best and fairest award following a stellar season in his 20th year with the club.
Russ earned the most votes out of more than 350 players across the state to win the Jack Ryder medal.
The 36-year-old played 11 games combining 404 runs at an average of 57.71 with 12 wickets at an economy rate of just over four to win the award in the one-day formatted season.
“It was all a bit surreal,” Russ said.
“The night winning the Ryder was something very special to not just myself and my family, but the club itself.
“To see the list of genuine cricket legends, it’s a great accolade to have.
It was 42 years ago when a Footscray cricketer had last won the award.
That was bowling all-rounder Barry Watson in 1979-1980.
It was the time when Russ’ grandfather William was involved at the club alongside father Jeff which gave Russ the right of passage to join.
Russ, a former Victorian state cricketer, credited the club for the support he has received since debuting at age 16.
“I hope that it’s a bit of recognition of how much support the club has given me and how welcoming it’s been,” he said.
“It’s been a second home.
“Once you’re there and get involved in the club and become part of the fabric, it is hard to leave.
“It’s the people that keep you turning up week in week out.”
The batting all-rounder felt he was able to perform in important situations throughout games.
“It’s probably the most content I’ve felt most and most comfortable,” the 292 gamer said.
“One-day cricket this year was interesting, we had the year before to adjust and we specifically set out to chase this season, that was sort of the plan that we had.
“So you just had to learn to adapt to situations and yeah I did feel like I made a pretty good impact on quite a few games.
“In terms of other runs and wickets, I have had bigger seasons but when you bat middle order now and bowl whenever you need to, you sort of just have to play the situation.”
Russ, who is also the high-performance manager at Cricket Victoria, appreciated the support from his family in cricket seasons that can get quite busy for him.
“It’s not easy,” Russ said on balancing work and playing.
“I’ve got a supportive family.
“Working in cricket pretty much 24/7 and then playing cricket has at times, particularly the year prior when my newborn was waking up every two hours, became a bit of a chore.
Russ said his enjoyment of the game and having it as a release from work was a byproduct of his performances this season.
After more than 30 years of involvement in the game, Russ thanked his parents, coaches, junior clubs and his best mates who have supported his journey.
“There’s been lots of people,” he said.
“My mum and dad have been great role models for me as a young person coming through.
“I think it’s unfair to say one particular person when there’s been a whole gamut of individuals over 30 years playing cricket who have really helped and contributed in some way shape or form.”
