Fresh off their inclusions in the 2019 Division 3 Team of the Year, Matt Hill and Brent Simons have recommitted to Emmaus St. Leo’s for the 2020 season.

The Animals fell just short of an immediate return to Division 2 when they were overcome by Manningham in the Preliminary Final, a game that Hill goalled in to bring Leo’s back within 2 points late in the 3rd term.

Hill was one of a select few who played every game for the Animals Senior side in 2019, kicking 16 goals, and knows to be selected in the side is no mean feat.

“It was a huge honour of which I was not expecting especially considering the year of another Animal wingman.”

“To be acknowledged and put in a team with some high quality players is something I'll cherish forever.”

Simons, who finished equal 6th in the VAFA and Animals Best and Fairest counts, had a standout return year at Bennettswood Reserve, but didn’t think he’d done well enough.

“Honestly I was pretty surprised to make TOTY, especially considering some of the talent getting around in our league. Huge thanks to the veterans in our squad. They do an outstanding job of leading our club, both on and off the field.”

Whilst the man nicknamed “Brenna” is stoked with the acknowledgement of his season, he knows there are bigger things on the horizon.

“While receiving individual accolades is humbling, they hold little value in comparison to team success. Regardless of what team you play for or what league you’re in, winning flags is the ultimate goal. We have taken massive steps this year as a club, highlighted by the success of our Reserves team.”

Both Hill and Simons were part of a star-studded Animals midfield which will look to go one better in 2020, but Hill points to a different reason as to why the Tasmanian looks to make Bennettswood his home long term.

“We may not be in one of the higher divisions but on pride, culture and mateship this club is unbeatable and I'll be an Animal for life.”

And Simons couldn’t agree more.

“I’m stoked to be a part of this massive family during this very exciting time for the club, plenty of success to come in 2020 down at Bennettswood Reserve!”

All members of the Animals Family both old and new will report back for the beginning of a massive preseason on November 18 at Bennettswood Oval.