Josh Weddle, a rising star in the Australian Football League (AFL), has his sights set on a future beyond the field that aligns with his family’s legacy. The Hawthorn player, known for his versatility and athletic prowess, dreams of joining the Victoria Police after his AFL career concludes. His parents, Senior Sergeant Jarrod Weddle and Senior Constable Tania Perry, have served in the force for over three decades, meeting at Carlton police station in 1991.
Weddle’s ambition to don the navy blue police uniform is deeply rooted in family tradition. His uncle and sister are also part of the force, creating a familial bond with law enforcement. Despite his current success in football, where he has played 59 games over three seasons, Weddle is drawn to the idea of joining the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) or the Special Operations Group (SOG).
The Path to AFL Stardom
Weddle’s journey to AFL prominence began with his love for sports, particularly basketball, which he favored over football during his childhood. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift in focus, leading him to pursue a career in football. This decision has proven fruitful, as Weddle has become one of the most promising young players in the league.
His early athletic development was nurtured by his mother, who introduced him to running at a young age. By the time he was seven, Weddle was regularly participating in 5km runs, eventually representing Victoria in cross-country events. This foundation of speed and endurance has been instrumental in his AFL success, highlighted by his impressive performance at the 2022 Draft Combine.
Family Influence and Support
Growing up with two police officers as parents, Weddle was exposed to stories and experiences that shaped his character and values. “They couldn’t go into too much detail, but Dad loved telling some stories,” Weddle shared. “We felt very protected at home. They taught me very good morals and how to stay out of trouble.”
Tania Perry, Weddle’s mother, is also known for her culinary talents, creating cookies that have become a favorite among Hawthorn players. Her gingerbread fondue creations, customized to celebrate player milestones, gained national attention after being featured on Channel Seven’s Roaming Brian segment.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Weddle’s AFL journey has not been without its challenges. A stress fracture in his back during a game against North Melbourne threatened to end his season prematurely. However, through determination and careful rehabilitation, Weddle returned to the field, contributing to Hawthorn’s success in the finals.
During his recovery, Weddle moved out of his family home, living with teammate Dylan Moore. His parents remain his biggest supporters, attending nearly all his games. As Weddle prepares for the upcoming match against Geelong, he reflects on his career and the potential future in law enforcement.
The Future: From AFL to Victoria Police
While Weddle’s AFL career continues to flourish, his aspirations to join the Victoria Police remain strong. He is particularly interested in the high-stakes work of the CIRT and SOG, which handle critical incidents and operations. “After footy, it would be cool to join the CIRT or the SOG,” Weddle expressed. “They do the high-end police work. I think that would be a cool career.”
As Weddle looks forward to the next phase of his life, he remains focused on his current role with Hawthorn, aiming to help the team reach the Grand Final. His journey from a promising young athlete to a potential future in law enforcement is a testament to his dedication and the strong family values instilled by his parents.
With his family by his side and a promising career ahead, both on and off the field, Josh Weddle is poised to leave a lasting impact in both the AFL and the Victoria Police.
